God - Sometimes I Get Cross - Understanding

While anger can be managed most of the time, there are occasions when I get cross. I get very angry when there are no answers to urgent questions, problems, or my own sin-restitution. Resources are exhausted and every effort to find solutions seem wasted. I feel responsible, guilty, accountable, inadequate and then get cross.

Why am I full of feelings I shouldn't have? Why are there no solutions for the urgent matters at hand? When I get to the lowest position, I get to the foot, base, root of the cross and hold on for life. I find the best and safest position is at the foot of the cross...the bottom, lowest, ground, beneath the Cross of Jesus.

I hear Our Lord say, 'Forgive her, Anita needs a Savior' or 'Come to me Anita, I will give you rest.' When I finally release and surrender my failings, I can finally hear as though Our Lord Jesus say,

"Arise, my soul, arise,
shake off your guilty fears;
The bleeding sacrifice,
in my behalf appears;
Before the throne my Surety stands,
Before the throne my Surety stands,
My name is written on His hands." John Wesley (1703-1791)

Then I get The Cross.

God - I Failed, But Jesus Came

Why do Christians make so many mistakes? More specifically, my own people, Protestant and Wesleyan, seem to have committed the most sins? The big scripture hinge states: If we sin, we have an advocate with the Father, the same Jesus Christ. All we have to do, 'if' we sin, is confess our sin and Our Lord Jesus is faithful to forgive us our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Our Savior Jesus Christ is God the Son and perfect in love and justice. He is the God who we, as fallen people, so desperately need. We as Christians know we have sinned and need a Savior higher, more powerful than humanity. We go to church because we need the prayers of others to honor God and humanity. We pray constantly because we are fully aware of the Perfect Mercy and Love of God on our souls. 

Yes, the church is full of hypocrites, and we church members know it...because we are the hypocrites who want to follow Jesus. We know by faith that Jesus wants us in His Life and He loves us perfectly. We know we are loved by the Perfect Benevolent Creator; Jesus loves us so much He died for us, rose from the dead, and lives forever to love us even though we need Him so desperately. Jesus always tells us to 'come to Him, we who are tired, and He gives perfect rest.' 

We are fallen people who trust, believe, hope, and rest in our Lord Jesus. Our Lord Jesus Loves me perfectly and He will help me love God and humanity.

I have sinned and deserve every evil consequence, but Jesus came.

Human Rights - Hangman - Child's Play

I remember playing hangman in elementary school. While teachers desperately tried to teach practical skills and basic math, no one imagined hangman as a tool of evil; after all I was born and grew up among good, holy, and integrated Northeast USA.

But people who killed others by hanging were not in the news and we just didn't know and were not taught that true evil existed.

Now, 40 years later, I know.

My problem is why people, who shouted Jesus on Sunday, hated people after church. We left church...we left Jesus. We depended, trusted in a Holy God and shouted, laughed and cried at God's holy altar and then we got up from the altar and left the church and went home. In the afternoon, someone was hung in the woods because they cried for mutual respect and simple common courtesy. Some one's body was found hanging from a tree in the woods...the same story from the beginnings of sin.

Jesus wasn't there.

I want to think our Good God was embracing and comforting the one on the rope.

I want to imagine the innocent victim of hate was the one person who was loved and grieved by a loving God.

I want to believe that the innocent victim of hate is the most blessed by God's Holy wisdom and maturity only found in Paradise.

Two thousand years of learning, discovering, and God's most Holy Presence, yet we are still tiny little children with simple minds playing hangman.

The rope, the noose, the child's learning...when will we grow up? When will we learn to think deeper?

I want to think God is perfect love who loves us despite our selfish, simple thinking, and if we cry Abba Father, He will forgive us and help us grow in Him and with each other.

I want to believe God sent Our Lord Jesus to help us overcome the evil of this world and freely give us the knowledge and wisdom to depend on God alone; we can actually become the child of God He intended for us.

Human Rights - Picket, Protest, Preach - What can I do?

I wish I had been born earlier so I could have marched with Martin Luther King and shout, sing, cry for world human rights. Now at my age, I wonder if there are any worthy causes to fight against. I wonder if my protest would only make the opponent stronger and undermine my effort.

I wish I could kneel and pray in the street to show the need for God as Supreme Ruler in our precious country and world. A holy man set himself on fire, his picture in all the magazines and someone made a lot of money.

I wish I could carry a tune and sing in a microphone songs begging for reverence for a Holy God and His creation. We got a bit carried away at Woodstock.

I wish I could use my fingers to play heart wrenching familiar music on my instruments and remind the audience of their responsibility toward others. Gospel music is big business.

Perhaps a sign with a clear message to honor the Creator and humanity. Billboards are everywhere.

Perhaps a drama to demonstrate the need for prayer for our political leaders that would shake the hearts of the hearers. Passion plays are big tourist attractions and no one likes the leader.

Maybe a creative, clever costume and stage paint to try to state the need for human compassion for all. Sacred temples forgot All Saints Day and converted Halloween to Fall Fest.

I can always write my political representatives clearly stating my sorrow for our country and world. I wonder.

Then I remember that the story has been done. All the methods have been used. People have not reacted to any gimmick for two thousand years.

So, for now, though tired of the unknown hope for change, the highest respect, compassion, encouragement, and blessings are always freely given.

Study - An Answer to All Our Problems - Good Bargain

When lost in study, don't be afraid to stop and physically step away. Pack up your gear and physically walk to a quiet place with no distraction and emotionally 'go home' and pray.

The Prayer Place is home to the soul and totally free of cost or consequence. No one can tell you that you can't go home. No one has the right or authority to tell you you can't go home. If you can't find your Prayer Place, consult the campus chaplain, religion teacher, campus safety to advise a place where you can seek God quietly. Write to God in a journal, draw in a sketchbook, or read your Holy Scriptures in a secluded, quiet place to prepare for time with Him. 

• campus chapel - usually pilgrims who hunger for Truth are always welcome regardless of personal persuasion
• garden
• restaurant - back booth or table. Purchase a cup of coffee or tea as courtesy.
• art gallery
• empty classroom, auditorium, foyer 
• even the eatery at the local grocery/department store. Sometimes white noise can be the best private partition.

 Too often we are all consumed with the tyranny of the urgent and find ourselves confused and lost as though bound in a dark pit. This is the time to physically walk, release your body and mind from the stress of the unknown and then in your Prayer Place just simply pray. 

• Spend quality time with Creator and tell Him you love Him
• Thank Creator for His perfect mercy and generous gifts on you (study, family, possessions, health, friends)
• Tell Creator how you are feeling

The same Creator that called Abraham a friend is our own Creator who calls us friends. He really wants quality time with us and He gives Himself freely.

When you are done speaking to Creator, spend time to think on Him silently and still just to honor Him and love His Presence. 

Now go back to study and start fresh from the beginning.  

The Answer is free; a very good bargain. 

Humanity - When the Chips are Counted, When the Cards are on the Table, We Are Just Children

The Blessed Creator has allowed us to learn as a part of life. Education and learning occur as the air we breathe in our lives. We all learn unique lessons in varied times and methods.

We always reveal our true selves in times of heartache, devastation, or the critical moment when our lives totally change. What we become in that singular, critical moment is totally our choice. Will we become a better servant to God and humanity, or will we embrace the bitterness and evil from lesser thinking?

We are created in the image of God and there is an immortal, benevolent desire to rise above the evil and mundane. It is just as easy to become the good servant to God and humanity as it is to become evil.

What if we choose the lesser way and embrace bitterness? We become the lesser thinker who abuses human life and kill for their own arrogance. In the end, they are alone with a broken crutch ready for the fire and no other support. The merciful God will bring another life lesson as another chance to learn and rise up to holy thinking and service that honors God. Simply put, when we make foolish mistakes, God always allows us to try again toward redemption until Blessed Messiah comes. This is the Benevolent and Merciful Creator who never wants His creation to perish but serve Him.

When we fail, God allows us a way to rise above and conquer the trial. All we have to do is pray.

When our friends fail, all we have to do is encourage them and stand by them as they try to improve; we love them in a way we would need if we fail.

So when the chips are counted and cards called on the table, we are all just children trying to learn.

Study - Solitary Outcast - Don't Belong Here - How to Survive

Here are a few alerts to protect from peer distractions that may cause unnecessary stress while enrolled in college and life in general. Remember, never allow distractions that move you to a lesser thinking or lower attitude. Consider all such associates as a valuable learning experience that will make you a better servant to the world. 'Do unto others as you would have them do to you.'

1. If anyone argues at your first comment, opinion, dialog, they will not be a friend. They do not respect your right to your own thoughts and expect you to submit to them. This is unnatural and the best reaction is simply to listen when required and keep a distance. They are simply called to a different path in life.
2. The person who is excessively generous at first meeting is an alert. They may have an unhealthy sense of entitlement you can not afford to repay. 
3. Never borrow or lend. Keep your personal needs and your own responsibilities to yourself and give materials freely to the needy if possible.
4. People who make judgment decisions about you with no regard or effort to find Truth, is an enemy. They want others to believe their lie as true; any lie can be thought as true even when not true. Assume means you make an 'Ass out of you and me.' 
5. When people demand an explanation from or about you when it does not concern them, they are your enemy.They do not respect your privacy means that they do not respect you.
6. People who correct you without your invitation is not a friend. They see you beneath them.
7. People who talk to you as a younger person and demand authority without cause, do not think you have learned adult character. They do not respect you.
8. If anyone freely touches your person or belongings without your permission, they are not your friend. The 6" rule is a very good one. 24-36" handshake is appropriate. People who respect others, respect boundaries.
9. Personal jokes, humor at your expense is never appropriate. The comic speaking is expressing what they truly feel. 'Put down jokes' always have devastating results. It is virtuous to 'laugh at yourself' when you make a mistake, but never appropriate to laugh at another person's mistake. Always have compassion and empathy to help those who make mistakes.
10. People who will not accept a polite, 'no thank you' is not a friend. 'Are you sure' is a bully and never a kindness.
11. People who will not accept your success is not a friend. Stay away from people who may be jealous.
12. The person who rejoices and cries with you, encourages you to grow, lovingly corrects you with truth, is a friend. This person is happy to see you conquer, succeed, and rewarded. This person is a trusted ally who will rejoice with you as you are promoted and will not sway at the thought of jealousy. 

Remember, you have a calling on your life to help make this world better to honor God and humanity. You are required to respect the differences in others: different calling, world view, attitudes, choices, etc. If you want to be respected for your differences, you must respect others for their differences. Do not be distracted by the differences in others, but learn from them and stay focused on your own studies and responsibilities. Freely we receive, we must freely give. 

Study - Mind Over Matter - Don't Worry About It - Do Not Be Distracted

If you're not physically uncomfortable with your study environment fix it immediately so you can study fully without distraction:

do you need a different chair, pillow, back rest; good back support

is the desk height correct for you 

is the lighting correct for you

is the air system correct for you

is the noise volume correct for you

do you know where the luvs are located

are you sleepy 

are you hungry, thirsty 

Have you had an emotional upset of any kind? Take the higher ground and fix it immediately. You must overcome, conquer, get rid of all distraction in order to study:

immediately fix it: apologize, make restitution if needed and move on to the higher, better thinking of the work you have to do alone...study.

Do Not Be Distracted by anything, anyone

Some easy solutions:

In the event items may be available, Ask: chair padding, blanket, ear plugs, lamp, snack

Remember: When you owe money, you will be alone in life...who will pay the cost of your living but You Alone. Don't let others interfere with your study.

Do Not Ever Be Distracted

To be a good student is your duty and obligation to this world.

You Are Not Alone and there are Professional People to help you. 

Government - Dear Mr. President - It's Easy

God has allowed you to sit as Commander in Chief of our precious country. Please be encouraged and know there are people who honor God and human life and they will pray for your strength and wisdom.

God will bless you with His strength to endure and ignore critics who are not from God. God will bless you with His wisdom to speak, act, conduct, as you approach critics, international leaders, and especially our own leaders.

God bless you now with a fresh Holy Anointing to go forward full of the Holy Spirit and do all God would have you accomplish.

The Lord will always hear the cry of His people who call on Him, therefore, please give no thought to social media numbers, but stay focused on God.

I am a no one who just prays.

Humanity - After Freedom Comes

Every privilege demands responsibility.

Every sin has a consequence. 

Jesus was our first privilege. God the Son came to this world because of His perfect love for the world. We as Jews and Gentiles were privileged to be called His family and children of God. Sadly, we loved Sin more than the Truth of God.

Did we think that the inhuman treatment of life would be fun forever? Did we think there would be no consequence to the abuse of the outcast, disenfranchised, and betrayed immigrants? 

We hated people who did not agree with us

Our greed caused women, children, and disabled to slave for less wages

We hated people who dressed differently, looked and spoke differently 

The result is now there are no fathers and mothers at home caring for their own children, people groups are marginalized to the point they demand a justice they may never know, and our children are too afraid to go to school and can't trust their own parents or authority...

Social networking, news, gossip, and any other false news spoonfeed, and people will not work to seek the Truth of God in all matters.

No one cares about Truth

a little boy hung himself on his bunk bed because he was afraid to go to school

a girl helped her boyfriend commit suicide

an American student, for no real reason, was tortured in North Korea; why didn't someone love him enough to teach him, warn him, prepare him for the trip? 

a mother killed her own children

a man abuses children

a man brutally kills a young girl with a baseball bat

a little boy brutally kills younger little boy with a baseball bat 

a poor soldier who is confused, afraid and runs to the enemy

the public who will not pray for our President and country leaders

the constant abuse of authority to abuse and kill the weak

the little child terrorist

the little child shield

the little children born for the food stamps

The very guilty blessed society.

No one cares about Life...

No one cares about Sacred...

and people are left hungry for justice and not God.

God have mercy on us for killing our most sacred freedom: Each Other.

God - Removing Crosses: What Did Jesus Ever Do to You?

I watch governments over the world removing crosses and religious symbols while worshippers sing hymns and weep. These are countries who do not want religious influences and are not concerned about human dignity through individual freedom. Perhaps they are ruled by communistic, militant dictator, socialist, or even totalitarian.

Born in the USA and of Protestant Wesleyan thought, religious freedom for all humanity was a most sacred tenant and demonstrated through tolerance and respect for cultural diversity. Our belief system was both our faith, a way of life, and security. Even though we were sectarian, we enjoyed the differences of the Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Jewish, Presbyterian, and Lutherans, and quite happy with idea that God is a great artist.

Today, I can't understand why 'different' is an offense and proselytizing has become the weapon of choice to coerce others. As an American Protestant, I have an obligation to show and demonstrate what religious freedom is and what it is not.

Your religious persuasion is your business; please respect mine

In your home, place of worship, in public with like-minded friends, practice your faith freely; please allow me to do the same

Your symbols are considered sacred; please respect my symbols

Be kind and do no harm to others

Jesus tells us we are to love as He loved us and we are to consider others as ourselves. Whatsoever you would they do to you, do to them.

No education required or special knowledge to understand; it is a simple Gospel.

What did Jesus ever do to you?

Humanity - Emancipation - We Didn't Know?

In my faith, God the Son, My Lord Jesus, came, died, rose from the dead and ascended to heaven. Lord Jesus lives forever to intercede for me if I sin. Jesus' work should have been enough to set us free from evil chains of slavery, but God saw we chose to stay in bondage and hate our fellow man; we massacred the innocent, exploited the weak for our own selfish pleasure. The very people so blessed with food, roof, and clothing, yet continue to embrace the madness of hate; they have lost their simplest ability to reason. 

For two thousand years God sent countless preachers, reformers, martyrs, or soldiers to fight for the good news of freedom from evil, but we still stayed in our bondage. We hear, 'I've suffered more than you so I deserve more than you,' or 'prove yourself to me, maybe you will be accepted,' or, 'You owe me.'

When people from other countries were betrayed by their own people, why didn't we as Christians have compassion on our neighbor and help them start a new life more abundantly just as we expect from Jesus? We were supposed to save them from evil, but instead Christians owned them...owned...enslaved...used. Evil says, 'What is yours is mine and I will take it because I want and deserve it more than you.' 

In my life, I've seen groups like Panthers, Ku Klux Klan, militia groups, Nazis, Black Lives, fundamental polygamists, etc., all worship under a precious Cross of Jesus, yet demand higher level of life than their neighbor...human life. Groups like these do not know the One True God and do not reverence human life. Hate groups are so consumed with their insanity, they rush to tear down public monuments that preach co-exist and peace.  

Injustice and evil are always with us until Blessed Messiah comes to finally heal the earth; the big question is, 'What do we do in the meantime?' 

Jesus taught us that our neighbor is anyone...everyone. Jesus loved the whole world and gave Himself freely, why don't we? 

Why did we do that to noble Native Americans?

Why did we do that to underprivileged, abused immigrants?

Why did we do that to poor widows and children we forced to work in our factories? 

Why did we do that to the African who was betrayed by their own?

Why do we do it?

Obesity - Pretty Lady Inmate Who Didn't Pray

I dream and even pray to be pretty, desirable and cherished. I want a world that is safe, trusting, where loving people are part of my community. Where children know where their parents are at all times and feel secure knowing they are needed and wanted. Parents love their children and care for their needs. The world where God is honored and human life respected.

Then I wake up from my dream and see the real me, a fat, old, white lady with a black mustache and gray eyebrows. There are times I forget the mirror and eat freely like others eat at the restaurant, only to suffer the weighted consequences. I push myself as I walk, get out of the chair, and obsess over low carb/sodium foods I can eat. I trudge through what feels like mud and slime when I try to walk and constantly wipe sweat from my face hoping I'm not offensive.

My body fat reminds me of the unjust and un-welcomed evil the world imposes. Hideous imposition constantly telling me, 'There is no use fighting, just hate like everyone else.' Hate in this world through such horrid reteric, 'My race is more worthy, my people is more important, my faith is right.' Like an unwelcomed suffocating prison of the fats and gore, we have violated the most Sacred of gifts: One Nation under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

Why didn't we pray, Honor God and Human Life?

Humanity - Destruction of Innocence - Hate

In my faith, there are three cardinal sins: lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and pride of life. All three open doors to all selfish activity which leads to hate, yet never satisfies. I say hate is a result of sin in one's personal life. It's an easy thing to run with hate toward our fellow man and actually enjoy the process of degrading another life.

Lust of the flesh is an unholy desire of the physical or what we do such as food, drink, chemicals, body manipulation, or sex.  The supreme goal is what feels good to the individual without regard to consequence to self or others.

Lust of the eyes involves greed or what we want to have and desire of the unearned and what one has no right to own. Stealing, cheating, embezzlement, paying unjust wages, swindling.

And the pride of life or what we may want to be such as personal advancement at the expense of others or imitate another lifestyle without counting the cost, or selfish need for vengeance. A lot of people tend to fall in extreme debt through the pride of life by trying to compete with their associates.

When we rush to hate without taking the time to research, seek truth with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, we invite sin into our lives. We read of small children taking their own lives because their world has become too hard, people killing others of another race/religion, or adult men taking little girls as brides, or children give their lives to hate groups who want to kill, mothers who kill their own children, rapist, murder, bombing, arson,...the list is endless and all the crueler.

I say just as sin is so easy, the holy life is easy. Our Creator loves us, desires His best for us in every matter and will not allow us to suffer more that we can manage. God is our perfect loving Creator.

Yes, the Ruler of the Universe is the Creator and Loves Us. His Love Endures Forever.

We can love one another. It's just that easy.

Humanity - Seek Truth and Co-Exist

Siblings often argue who is more important, who does Daddy love more, and over property/boundary rights.

I have faith this is not the case with Peaceful children of Abraham, but those who do not fear God. Yes, if we honor God and life, Christian, Jewish, and Muslims can co-exist. The One True God created human beings to have a care for creation and love, cherish their families. A godly man would never cause harm or abuse his wife and children. 

People who seek to harm are those who do not honor God. People who hurt, abuse, rape their children and spouse, are not faithful children of Abraham. The Holy Bible, Torah, and Quran all strongly condemn the selfish use of children and abuse of human life. The Holy Creator has called His creation good; human life is as holy to God as God should be to us, His children. God expects us to cherish and love each other as He loves His creation. 

So when we see inhumane video clippings and images, it is from the devil's own hand to cause hate. We as faithful to God must seek the Truth in all matters. We have to ask, seek and knock fervently for Truth as Our Lord Jesus commanded. Pray and ask our Creator to teach us Truth in all things, especially regarding disturbing images. Go to the nearest university library and ask the help of a professional librarian, ask vital questions: who, what, where, when and why.  Christianity, Judaism, and Muslim all have their own best sources for answers to those who seek Truth...seek Peace.

What child of God wants to see his precious baby touched by another man?
What child of God would ever take the life of his brother who is Christian, Hebrew, or Muslim?
What child of God would ever hurt others?

None.

Humanity - A Very Holy Three: Christianity, Judaism, Muslim

God has allowed three systems in which to worship the One True God: Judaism, Christianity, Muslim. All three are children of good and faithful 'Friend of God,' Abraham. In my simple mind, we are siblings called Peace who have our own lives. We all work to provide for our children, come home from work and attend to our families.

Synagogues, churches, mosques, all represent our homes where we all learn to honor God and demonstrate the highest respect for human life as God commands.

I want to hope and pray that we as monotheistic followers are tied, linked, united together in the Holy fight against the evil that God hates: the abuse and killing of human life.

As a Judaic-Christian, my faith both instructs and comforts me trusting that My Lord Jesus Christ wants me to consider the lives of others as most precious because Jesus loved first. Jesus took all the power of evil upon Himself so that we could love one another as He so loved. 

I have to believe that God the Father is the Supreme Ruler and Victor over evil because Lord Jesus Christ conquered death and rose from the dead on the third day and ascended to rule and plead for humanity today. 

There are always people who want to hate, kill, and destroy; they do not know the One True God. 

Does this make killing right? No.

God - Destruction of a Cemetery: No Rest for the Weary

I saw a video today of a group of people vandalizing a cemetery by shooting the tombstones and kicking them down; stones with Magen David, crosses, names, dates, all stomped flat to the ground. My first thought and hope that this was a theatrical demonstration to produce a teaching tool. Then, as most people, I felt rather vulnerable.

I wish I could understand why or what caused such anger, hatred. I wish I could try to talk to them and tell them of the Creator's Supreme Love for them. I wish I could tell them how very blessed they are to be so healthy, striking, robust young people with such fine, nice clothes and shoes. I wish I could remind them they have the gift of action, boldness, drive, that only comes from Our Blessed Creator. If only I could tell them that they are very loved and cherished.

I wish they could understand that the Great Creator freely gave them life so that they could honor God and humanity.

I wonder if they ever think of why God wants them to live and why the names they are crushing are not living.

I know I must pray for these people and all who follow this ignorance. It is a very tragic ignorance to hate and seek revenge. God has His own methods and perfect Will: that all creation worship God and honor humanity.

Please, I must beg all to stop, look, listen, think; seek the Truth of the One True God in all things. If only we would just simply pray, reverence God and humanity.

I know if everyone would stop and pray, honor God in all matters, there would be an end to the destruction of the human soul.

God have mercy on me and on the whole world.

Humanity - My Family's Slave, by Alex Tizon, Atlantic, June 2017

https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2017/06/lolas-story/524490/

After reading this article, I cried, then angered, then immediately tried to search for any solution. How in the world do we fight slavery? It's one of those impossible problems that totally crush my zeal, like the problem of prostitution, homelessness, poverty, and the other countless problems too big to solve.

Sin is with us until The Anointed One comes to earth. People without conscience will always lust for what they see, feel, and power at the expense of others. I will always be tempted and tested and often fail.

As a simple minded woman, all I know for sure is I am very blessed, so blessed I dare not complain about anything. I know God provides my food, clothing, and home. God has chosen who sits in power and God also removes people from power.

I must hold to the Truth that God is Supreme Ruler and I must Honor God and Humanity.

God have mercy on me and on the whole world. Please Teach us To Pray.

Submitted with all respect to Alex Tizon. May he rest in peace for his incredible compassion and selfless education through this article.

Study - Failure: A Worthy Teacher for the Best of Professionals

You must never be ashamed when failing a class, work project, or even life event when you have done your best. Your best effort in any circumstance is already a gold mine. I would rather have a professional who knows what failing is like than the 'silver spoon intellect' who never struggled to learn.

It is never necessary to fail, but if you do, here are some reminders:

• Never forget and take courage in the truth that you have done your best: managed time, health, obligations. This truth is totally unique for you and totally independent of other's opinions.
• Analyze the event and learn the lessons unique and special to you. You are the only one capable of understanding this special wisdom because you alone have suffered this lesson. This event will make you all the more solid in your profession.
• After you have done your best to correct your mistake, make needed restitution, and most importantly allowed yourself a quiet time/repentance with God, then get back to study, work, and do it all over again from scratch. You are most worthy to see success because you will not blame others for your failing, but take full responsibility.
• Approach the repeat as though it is totally new to you: learn as a child and what you already obtained will come to your aid as needed.
• It is never easy to fail, but when you have done all, given all, poured out your very heart/mind/soul to the task, you will always succeed at being the servant to humanity and thus making this world what it should become.

Never, Never give up; because you had in your heart to accomplish means someone loves you enough to plant the seed of possibility and has hope in you to become what our world needs. 

You are the Humble Servant to God and Humanity. I can't wait to see a better world because of what you accomplish.

Study - Ignorance and Failure: Honored Teachers

Ignorance is the most brutal teacher and Failure is nearly as brutal making them the most valuable, even though Ignorance cannot help defend in a court of law.

I have sinned against God and others countless times due to ignorance and failure. Ignorance of truth, facts, and most often due to my own immaturity.

If you have sinned due to Ignorance or Failure, here are some ideas to survive:

• Immediately ask God to help you understand the event. Pray, read your Holy scriptures, surround yourself with the sacred and higher thinking environments, such as a good art museum, a place of worship, or library; you need solitude. Never occupy your mind with mundane or cheap thinking such as 'it's their fault' or revenge, but use logic and critical thinking to sort out the painful lesson; how will it help you grow and be a better servant, in the future, is the most important goal.
• Never forget life lessons are totally subject to the individual; no one learns the same lesson at the same time. This moment is the beginning of learning; allow yourself and others the joy of the journey.
• Always help others prevent the pain through patience, compassion, understanding, and empathy. You do not know how others feel, but you have suffered and you need to learn from a mistake.
• Enjoy the learning space you find yourself: a second chance is freely given to correct, learn, grow.
• If a new job, then remember this lesson to be the better servant.
• If you have offended, humbly approach your victim to confess fully and ask their forgiveness and ask, 'how can I fix my mistake?' and never expect anything in return. Simply Honor God and fellow man. You value human life and the feelings of others.

Remember, there is always joy to be found during the learning from Ignorance/Failure process. You will be the better servant for your integrity. 

Your future will be all the better because you are better. A constant failure is one who is bitter toward others and never takes responsibility for their own actions.

Please rise up and above toward higher thinking and enlightenment.

World Peace - Just a Little Piece

    My faith allows me a position of peace and security while living in an uncertain world; this world teaches that my desires demand fulfillment at the expense of others. Human beings refuse to seek truth, attack, brutalize, and often kill for their own causes, desire, or enjoyment, while a large audience film the event with their phones offering no benevolent help. Governmental policies seem to lean toward a fatal class system, totalitarian or a more dreadful dictatorship. 
    I want to trust and believe that the best safest position for me is just a small piece of a place in Creator's Presence. 

• if I am a big empty building, then I will wait on the Creator to decide my purpose
• if I am just a lumber partical, then I will wait on Creator to form me

• if I am big, strong tree, then I will wait on Creator to decide my purpose  
• if I am just a piece of tree or leaf, then I will wait on Creator as I provide a rest for insects or a dinner plate for birds

• if I am a beautiful bird, then I will wait on the Creator to instruct the song
• if I am just a piece of feather, I will wait on His breath to lead me

• If I am a monarch butterfly, then I will wait on Creator to guide me 
• if I am just a piece of insect, mite, then I will quietly, diligently do the work Creator has given me

• if I am just a book, then I will wait on Creator to find my place on the shelf
• if I am just a piece of letter, yud, then I will wait on Creator to decide where on the page I belong
  

    If I am not a piece of anything and being no good thing, and no place to go but upward, then, I will be at the foot of the Cross where Perfect Peace is found.
    When all is said and done, God wants nothing to make us something: Peace. 

Inspired by: De Fina, Barbara, Martin Scorsese, Melissa Mathison, Tenzin Thuthob Tsarong, Gyurme Tethong, Roger A. Deakins, Thelma Schoonmaker, and Philip Glass. Kundun. Burbank, Calif: Touchstone Home Video, 1998. 

God - Red, Yellow, Black, White Race God

During my elementary and middle school years, my family attended the Church of God in Christ where I learned some people take comfort believing in God as belonging to their own race. I've seen art books of Virgin and Holy Family as Asian, African, Indian/Pakistanian, Native American, and Caucasian, as well as wearing countless traditional costumes. 

While I find the international personification of God a most beautifully comforting concept, as a Caucasian Judaic Christian, I am very honored that the perfectly loving God could possibly love me; so honored that I am reminded of Fanny Crosby's hymn, 'I Shall know Him.'

If I am so very privileged to meet Our Lord Jesus, I will know Him not by His race, appearance, or voice, but I will know Our Lord Jesus by the thorn prints on His forehead, nail prints in his hands and feet, the healing stripes on His back, and the spear scar on His side. 

Then I am reminded of Charles Wesley's hymn, 'Arise my Soul Arise' where five pleading wounds He bears for me to intercede. 

How can the Great I AM love me? 

I don't know.

God - Healing the Fear of Anarchy

When my society and culture appears to lean toward anarchy, I am not only afraid of the disorder, but equally afraid of man's possible solutions. I found a little comfort in my Jewish prayer book and all I can know is my own need to reverence God and His Creation. Lord, please start your work in me first and please cast me not away in your wrath.


"Without Torah, there is no social order;

Without Social Order, there is no Torah.

Without Wisdom, there is no conscience,

Without Conscience, there is no wisdom.

Without Knowledge, there is no understanding;

Without Understanding, there is no knowledge.

Without Sustenance, there is no Torah;

Without Torah, there is no sustenance. "


Rabbi Elazar ben Azarya

Central Conference of American Rabbis. [Shaʻare tefilah] = Gates of prayer : the new Union prayerbook : weekdays, Sabbaths, and festivals, services and prayers for synagogue and home. New York: Central Conference of American Rabbis, 1975. Page 22.

Humanity - Lampyridae - Lightening Bugs in a Jar

My Dad was always strict regarding good manners and especially being thankful for blessings. Good manners demonstrated respect for human life and table manners demonstrated our gratitude for precious food. 

Dad was born in Appalachian poverty during the 1930's, and very offended when I didn't want to eat what was on my plate or using slang to describe another culture group. In our Wesleyan holiness home, slang idioms were never tolerated especially referring to people. The 1960's social awareness not only brought awaking respect for human life, but new television technology in every home brought mature, ethnic humor that Mom and Dad strictly taught against. 

One summer we visited Dad's childhood Appalachian home, and I saw the house where he was born and the movie theater he lived, ate and worked as a child. 

Across the street was a laundromat and an elderly, African-American lady was waiting on a bench outside looking at newspaper sales advertisements. Dad introduced her and told me she and her husband lived in a small one-room cabin by the river and fed him fish when he was little. They never had children but showed him kindness. 


Dad's lesson was fully understood when he saw me catching lighting bugs in a jar and said, "Oh no, I am so glad I'm not one of those bugs." I learned in that second that we all are shining ones created and loved perfectly by God.

Immediately the Lampyridae, or shining ones (1), were set free and the jar was thrown in the trash, and I never again had any thought of catching any living thing. I tried fishing only to pity the precious little bait and poor fish. I tend to prefer vegetables and try to eat only Kosher meat. 

Isn't it time we all trashed the jars? 

After all, we are created in the Creators image. 

Humanity shines because the Creator of the universe shines.  


1. https://www.dispatch.com/article/20090726/news/307269696

Humanity - A Wesleyan Holiness and First Communion Dress

It was Sunday afternoon, I was seven and riding my bike, and one of my German playmates down the street was dressed in a white wedding dress with a lace veil. 

All I could think of was, 'Can I have one? Can I go with you?' My dear friend said she was going to church and her first communion. She was beautiful in her long lace crinoline dress, white leotards, white patent leather shoes, gold cross necklace, white rosary and white missal, and her blond ring curls. 

I went home and asked my mother when I would have my first communion? Not only did I learn simply to wait until adulthood, but Mother sat down and explained that God has allowed all people a faith in which to believe greater than themselves.  I learned from Mother's life lessons that Creator is a Great Painter who gave us the joy of diversity...cultures, ideas, languages, all so we can create as He has done...create the joy of learning from humanity. 

God help us enjoy differences. 

Humanity - Silk Voices on a Silk Road - Fun with Korean Hallyu

Here are some reasons I admire Korean Pop Music with all respect to technical/digital requirements, other Asian popular music, and Western influences. I love unique Asian cultures and their arts and pray Asian popular art will always be their own and less Western in time. A respect to SM Entertainment and Lee So Man who seems to be the initial visionary.

• Discipline: Korean culture has respect for discipline, work ethic, and standards of perfection that show in their performances. I appreciate their males serving in the military; their work seems to be more focused and more disciplined which makes them all the more successful.
• traditional elements - costume, musical instruments, historical themes
• I hear Pansori vocal styles in some of their songs (Taeyang from Big Bang is my favorite)
• Vocals: The Korean language lends an anatomical exercise for the respiratory system, especially the vocal chords.
• Arrangements: The compositions seem to have a balance in melody, rhythm, and harmony, as well as incorporating traditional Korean elements such as unique singing style, instrumentation, as well as a long history of complex stories. Asian rhythms and scales actually make sense when I read the stories/lyrics. 
• Dance: The choreography is very well trained, prepared, and seasoned. Performers are already professionals when they begin their career after years preparing through formal performing arts education. Commonly performers begin in middle school to train for performing arts.
• Relative: I find my own taste of classical dance forms, traditional elements in set designs, even stories I can relate. I especially like the set designs, makeup, and costumes ranging from fine business suits to casual that is modest, and the very dramatic. 
• Modesty: One reason I shy from female entertainers (globally) is the immodest dress and behavior. Nothing makes a female more beautiful than a refined, modest character and dress.
• Male Vocals: I have always been a fan of the male singers/dancers since birth; male Gospel quartets, acapella groups, male counter classical singers. Male voices have a particular balance in color and texture. 
• Asian Traditional Themes: I have always dreamt of learning Asian musical forms and cultures in general. In God's time, the study privilege will be worth the wait. 
• Modest Lyrics: Modest lyrics with very familiar stories and experiences. Yes, I am very selective (my own choice to be 'too young') and find works that are modest than those with adult content. 

I say thank you to performers who have made my life so much fun through their culture such as:

• Topp Dogg, Arario, very hip hop using traditional props...very exciting
• Taeyong, Eyes, Nose, Lips, Ringa Linga, he makes me cry every time; stunning vocals
• Tiger JK/Yoonmirae, Bang Ditty, Bang, Bang, reminds me of India's Holi festival
• Tiger JK/Yoonmirae/Bizzy, Fly Like an Eagle
• Exo, Growl/Beauty and Beast performance at Moma 2013, was thrilling ballet, jazz, opera. Total package.
• NCT U, 7th Sense, totally every element making this a classic piece.
• Block B, Nilli Mambo, clever encouragement to excel
• Big Bang, Babe Babe, complete with hanboks
• Kim Hyun Joong and Jay Park, Unbreakable, featuring traditional drums, costume
• VIXX, Shangri-La

I've been watching Asian dramas via DramaFever and Viki for five years and still trying to pick up/learn languages. God help me improve and thank God for such privilege.

KAMSAHAMNIDA (감사합니다) 
http://kimchicloud.com/thank-you-in-korean-kamsahamnida/

God - Heart, Mind, Soul, Strength - Defense of Human Dignity

O the Beauty of the human heart: Our loves, prides, joys, repulsion, disappointments, and sorrows are all God given and God permitted. He asks us, 'please give me all your repulsion, disappointments, and all your sorrows, for My burdens are light and I will gladly take your ashes of pain, and give you My oil of gladness.' He has given us the beauty of submission to His Perfect Design for our lives...expressed through our prayers...shown by a human smile, hug, wave, hand shake, even a nod, and ultimately acceptance though a helping hand defending Human Dignity.

O the Beauty of the human mind: Our intellect, reason, study, learning, thinking; a storehouse of the most valuable of God's free ability to use information. Freely God has allowed us Holy Wisdom just for the asking. He has given us the beauty of submission to His Perfect Design for our lives...expressed through our prayers...shown by kippah, hijab, mantilla, and Grandma's Sunday hat in hopes that we will always preserve and defend Human Dignity.

O the Beauty of the human Soul: Our acceptance of a power greater than ourselves and how we define our relationship with such power. What is the reason we get out of bed? Why do we live? What is our purpose? God has given us the beauty of submission to His Perfect Design for our lives...expressed through our prayers...shown by our own actions and reactions to Human Dignity.

O the Beauty of human Strength: Our own internal will and external force combine to accomplish all that God has called us to do...get out of bed, move to help others, and determine, recon ourselves to submit to the Blessed Creator's plan for our lives.  He has given us the beauty of submission to His Perfect Design for our lives...expressed through our determination...shown by the radiant smile on every human face where Human Dignity is upheld.

God - What we live for...What we die for. God Watched the Children Learn.

One of the factors that define human beings is a reason to live and die. My faith has given me God for whom I live and die.

Our precious youth seems to lack this understanding and they are looking for a reason to live and die. What has their community taught them? How did our youth miss the most important lesson that would save their lives?

I still weep for our lost youth who have been led by evil. I still remember their names as I've seen their picture on the cover of popular magazines, newspapers, on the television; sweet, precious young people with acne who bombs child care centers, public outdoor events, and runs to join Isis. These children come from good communities of family, education, worship, and friends, yet, missed the most urgent of lessons: their lives are for God's use and all faiths know that Creator is benevolent, kind, good, and wants the best for His creation.

I still weep for the elementary children who takes their own lives or the lives of others, prepubescent children diagnosed with HIV or AIDS, even children who want to be another gender/someone else.

We thought we gave them:

Good Society

Right Side of the Tracks

Religious training

Nice clothes

Nice house

Popular, important parents

But we didn't give them a Loving God.

We didn't tell them God wants them in His Life, God wants them to be His Friend.

They were sweet, precious youth, who desperately needed a cause to make life better for the people they loved, but they missed the most important guide: God loved them and is in control of their lives. They believed they were alone in their desperation to make their world better for their family.

As an adult, it is terrifying to feel alone when consumed with questions and problems. I can't understand why our children would feel this way. Children who have families, community, school, worship; what has happened to their security?

We have sacrificed innocent children on the altar of idolatry, evil humanism, and evil narcissism, when we as God-fearing adults were supposed to raise them to know the One True God...the One True God they could trust and obey.

The One God, Creator of the Universe who wanted them and gave them life

The One God, Almighty, who they can always trust

The One God, All Powerful, who can and will protect them 

The One God, All Loving, who loves them unconditionaly and delights in them

The One God, God of Salvation, who will deliver them from all destruction 

Repent and wash our hands from the innocent blood of our children. Elders, family, friends, teachers, worship family, turn from the evil of hate and teach the children that God loves them and wants their good. It is never God's will to destroy, but to always build up His creation. After all, isn't the Creator the Ruler of the Universe? Do we not claim to preach the One True God Almighty, Perfect in Love and Justice?

God have mercy on us, we never taught our children to know God.

Humanity - KPop Idols and the Fat, Old, White Lady on a Bicycle

I ride my bike happily and very heartily while pushing and pulling 225 pounds up and down hills for ten miles. I find it is very worth the effort and time because in my ear there are very dashing, persuading, young men telling me I can do this, I love to do this, I look great doing this, and yes, I am doing a very good job. 

• TOP from Big Bang just screams, 'Fantastic Baby' and 'Turn it Up Loud'
• G Dragon from Big Bang cries, 'Shake the World'
• Sungrei reminds me how great I am, 'Hi Sexy'
• Topp Dogg allows me the same status, 'Topp Dogg'
• Junsu Xia says, 'move that body, rock the world'
• Taeyang and G Dragon tells me, 'I am a good boy (girl)'
• Junsu Xia pushes me on my bike with Tarantallegra...
• Block B again I'm reminded how very good I am
• Ikon keeps my pedaling in good Rhythm Ta
• G Dragon says that I am One of a Kind
• Taeyang, one of my faves, tells me to just do it, 'it's my party...if I want to'
• BAP fervently convinces me, 'we are young, wild, and free'

Yes, there are more...these are just a few I have purchased for my player. I like to think of this time as my time to enjoy great, tremendous vocals. The Korean Wave-Hallyu, has given me superb quality music as I enjoyed in the 1960's. 

I thank God for the modesty and dignity of Kpop artists and their much needed and very appreciated assistance with a totally impossible task. 

Study - You, Your Education is More Precious than Gold - Survive as an Outsider

Education is a place, time, period, and world that is a sifting ground for the soul. It is hard on every aspect of the human soul.

Education is a place of growth and self awareness in a place very foreign. The education place can be both conducive and cruel, causing a feeling of awkward while revealing the dreaded truth that a hard lesson must be learned immediately. It is urgent that the soul allows this experience/feeling to wash over them, and step toward a new level of self discovery; like turning a dirty door knob to enter heaven and very worth the hard experience.

The time of life when a student is learning can be critical. Very young, average age, or older than traditional, can always help in the learning process. The student's world view and observations always help define the subject at hand. Always give thanks for God's gift of your age as a student; you are not in class by accident, because, God knows your input is necessary for others to learn.

World events can help shape your professional life. Your need to help others will be all the more stimulated because you are in classes 'at such a time as this.' Always allow the world events to help shape your profession and make you a far greater servant to humanity. Do not be distracted by the evil in the world, but use the events to help you learn to serve and protect life.

Never allow yourself to be distracted by social pressure or other matters not directly associated with your schooling. Stay totally focused on your mission to improve your service to humanity/life. You may loose friends and possessions, but you must never lose your confidence to become the extraordinary professional tried by the fires of learning, and the world will need the most.

You can do this, because you are reading this...taking time to learn.

Humanity - Move to Another Table: A Plea for Courage

It's always comfortable sitting at the same table with people who are like-minded: from the same culture, church, neighborhood, and even share the same appearance.

I know well what it feels like to walk in a restaurant and everyone stops talking/eating and stares at me; it's very uncomfortable. I hope and pray I never find out how it feels for people to relocate to a different table or leave their food. I've seen this recently and I cry for those who are despised. I want to hug them, pray for God's blessings upon them, try to bless them through light, fun chatter. Please God, have mercy on us and on the whole world. Wash away the hate in human life and help us love as You so perfectly love.

Here are some suggestions to help people who may suffer from hate:

1. Pray first asking God, 'Lord, what would you have me to do to bless these people; what can I do?' Whatever you feel in your heart/mind to do, just may be what they need. 
2. If possible, move to a table near them, smile, and just light chatter such as: 'Hi. Nice weather we are having and I am so glad I'm not cooking or cleaning today.' A light chat with a stranger is common in many cultures. 
3. Try a random act of kindness, such as paying for their meal or drink if they agree; please don't insult through reverse discrimination. Carefully, quietly, ask the waitress (while giving her an extra tip) to give you their ticket, and pay for their meal anonymously. 

Nothing is more sacred than genuine, human kindness defined by Our Lord Jesus, "Love one another as I have loved you."

How would it make you feel?

Humanity - Co-Exist: A plea to fellow man all over the world

First to my dearest family in Our Lord Jesus, 070516

“And love will cover a multitude of sins.”

“Come to Me you who labor…I will give you rest.”

Why do we hate the very souls Our Lord Jesus died and rose for…the very people who have not met Him properly…the very people who have met a false master? I lovingly submit to you that we who have called on a Holy God have not preached His Gospel, demonstrated His Gospel as Our Lord commanded for 2,000 years. All too often I have heard very good people say, ‘I’ve met too many Christians and cannot believe.’ I cry for and those dear souls who could have turned to God only to be rejected by my own poor witness; and I cry for my own failings before a Holy God. In God’s Holy Word (Psalms 51), did He not remind that He delights in obedience rather than sacrifice? Despite our Lord Jesus’ redemptive work for all humanity, we who say we follow Him, destroyed the innocent who had not heard the Gospel; never had a chance to choose to follow our Lord Jesus. He told us to ‘go into all nations and preach/demonstrate the Gospel to everyone’ (Mt. 28). The command to kill the unbelievers was fulfilled by Our Lord Himself on the cross, resurrection, and interceding for us forever; we as New Testament believers were never supposed to massacre the innocent and helpless. The example forefront in my mind taken from history, is the dreadful record of the Native American, the African slaves, the abuses suffered by immigrants such as the Asian railroad laborers and female/child factory workers, the dreadful, non-consensual human experimentation.  

Please we must stop hating the souls and demonstrate Our Lord Jesus, keeping watch when He will return for us. I have found that nothing matters but Our Lord Jesus and what I chose to do with Him. I must keep my eyes on the Blessed Lamb at all times; I must trust and obey Him at all times and disregard the propaganda from hell. Others may chose evil and they, like me, will make a choice. I chose Jesus as my Master, my Lord, my Redeemer. What God has promised, He will do because He is God and God is enough.

Most humbly, carefully submitted with all love and respect for you. Please pray for me to the Lord our God as I strive to correct myself at all times.

The Lord bless you and keep you; make His face to shine on you and be gracious unto you...I love you. 

Humanity - The Pastor’s Wife

There is one person in our Church

Who knows our Pastor’s life.
Who weeps and smiles and

prays with Him,
And that’s the Pastor’s wife!

The crowd has seen him in his strength,
While bearing God’s Sharp Sword
As underneath God’s banner’s folds
He faced the devil’s horde.

But deep within her heart she knows
That scarce an hour before
She helped him pray the glory down
Behind the closet door!

She heard him groaning in his soul
When bitter raged the strife.
As, hand in hand she knelt with him,
For she’s the Pastor’s Wife.

You tell your tales of Preachers brave
Who marched across the world
And changed the course of history
By burning words they hurled

And I will tell how back of each
Some woman lived her life
Who wept with him and smiled with him,
She was the Pastor’s Wife!

Author unknown.

Found clipping at random 1980

Humanity - Religious Freedom and Cultural Diversity

How 'Different' teaches me religious freedom

“Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” Emma Lazarus

God has blessed our country with so many different colors of people, philosophies, and arts. The differences God has allowed in the United States, have given such a beautiful picture of Truth and Peace, that we see Our Good Lord Jesus in every face.

When I hear a different language, it is always a prayer; God so loved the world He gave Jesus.

When I see a different face, it is always an angel; God so loved the world He gave Jesus.

When I hear different music, I simply praise the Lord; God so loved the world He gave Jesus.

When I see God-given Old Glory, I owe God everything; God so loved the world He gave Jesus.

God has shed His Grace on the United States...how can I do less for those who think, believe, and trust differently?

Isaiah 61 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; 2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; 3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.

Good Lord Jesus, help me live for others...help me honor you as I honor others; the very others for whom so many continue to die just as You gave all for me.

Study - Meditation Before Class or Study

What has blessed me preparing for the classroom or private study:

1. Take a Vow of Silence 15-minutes, clearing any distractions before entering the classroom: when entering the classroom and unpacking your book and materials, preparing for instruction.

2. Silently ask your Creator to help you absorb 'everything' He/She may have for you.

Remember, too often we forget that our brains can do far more than we think. Just take all that the Creator has planned specifically for you to receive in this class, and remember you are far more capable than you can imagine.

3. Now breathe and enjoy the 'washing over' of the information and absorb all of it as though you are under a waterfall of total refreshment.

Even if this is a difficult class and perhaps the end of the year stress is gripping, this class...this singular event is indeed a step upward toward enlightenment; no one can take your 'Human Capital Gained'.

Study - College Vacation Hints: Just Relax

1. Determine what vacation means to you personality: mountains or beach; TV or pc; activity or couch.

2. The vacation must 'work' for you and not vis-à-vis. Every element surrounding you must 'vocalize' and tell you, "Just relax". For example, personify the waves and hear them say, "[your name]Just relax".

3. Forget temporarily everything class related: professors, classmates, schedule, work, deadlines. Do not take textbooks on vacation especially post semester breaks such as the summer break.

4. If by chance your vacation is located on campus, study the flowers blooming or the water fountain in front of Lundy Fetterman building. Watch the birds on the petals or the drops of misty water falling from the fountain; just listen to the birds and the water as it says to you, “Just relax". Try the pool for swimming/floating for light or heavy activity, enjoy the water, and let your mind visit a far away, good place.

5. At Wiggins Memorial Library, check out a pair of headphones and watch a movie in the lab, or viewing room on the 3rd floor if you do not have a player at home. Bring a picnic lunch, a pillow, relax on a cushion couch with your own laptop, check out a movie from the media center, and "just relax".

Now you are ready to face another semester of classes and you will be very glad for them. Vacation is like being "a feather on the breath of God" (Hildegard Von Bingen) and classes can be the same.

On a side note, while bunny slippers are always welcome, 'immodesty' is never welcome in public. Be considerate of others at all times.

Marriage - 'How Beautiful the Marriage of Christians' by Tertullian

How beautiful, then, the marriage of two Christians, two who are one in hope, one in desire, one in the way of life they follow, one in the religion they practice.

They are as brother and sister, both servants of the same Master. Nothing divides them, either in flesh or in spirit. They are, in very truth, two in one flesh; and where there is but one flesh there is also but one spirit.

They pray together, they worship together, they fast together; instructing one another, encouraging one another, strengthening one another. Side by side they visit God's church and partake of God's Banquet; side by side they face difficulties and persecution, share their consolations.

They have no secrets from one another; they never shun each other's company; they never bring sorrow to each other's hearts. Unembarrassed they visit the sick and assist the needy. They give alms without anxiety; they attend the Sacrifice without difficulty; they perform their daily exercises of piety without hindrance. They need not be furtive about making the Sign of the Cross, nor timorous in greeting the brethren, nor silent in asking a blessing of God.

Psalms and hymns they sing to one another, striving to see which one of them will chant more beautifully the praises of their Lord. Hearing and seeing this, Christ rejoices. To such as these He gives His peace. Where there are two together, there also He is present; and where He is, there evil is not.

Humanity - My Old Country Blessing to You

My Old Country Blessing by Me

May you earn seven plus digits a year with limited liability.
May you dance with the stars in stilettos/manly platform shoes when you're 1000 years old.
May you have the wisdom and knowledge of God throughout eternity.

Lovingly submitted
Anita Mullins Brown
January 29, 2016

Study - All Sufficient Questions

All Sufficient Questions

There is nothing more holy than questions. I would rather hear questions than all the opinions of the sages.

Questions open the whole person to learn more and enjoy the fullest joy of the eternal journey of education.

Questions open the eye of the needle to far more possibilities making a single thread into a strong rope.

Today, Friday, I asked a student, “Why are you not going to the beach? It’s Friday and time for rest.” When I mentioned I could see the signs of success on him, he replied, “I have all questions.” To me this is a successful student.

Heart, mind, soul, strength without questions, is a person without The Creator.

Anita Mullins Brown

January 29, 2016

Obesity - Goal #1, 12-mile Bike Ride, 10/23/2015, 6:45 am

On Friday, 10/23/2015, 6:45 am, I achieved my first goal, and will continue improving, riding bike to work 12 miles one-way. Yes it was very hard and I rushed the goal...should have worked out more before doing it. 
Here are my observations:

• Eat/drink banana and water before starting; I forgot and went out on a 24-hour fast. Very bad.
• stopped half way at a store and bought granola bar and tea with fruit flavor 
• stretched/rested for @10 minutes when my 'shakes' finally ended, then continued.
• Hills are hard...I need more experience and the right pep music to keep my mind off the 200 lbs I'm pushing
• Stop half way for stretch/refreshment is always recommended in any situation
• Must have quality bike shorts specifically for gender and right fit; they are an investment very necessary
• Must have quality bike shoes specifically for gender and right fit; they are an investment very necessary. They feel as though they are doing all the work for you and you can enjoy the ride better.
• Wear quality sports socks for biking, the thick section will be on the 'heel' of the foot' to pad/protect the foot while peddling; I have common athletic anklets that have the extra padding on heel and the 'heel' of the foot (near the toes). 
• Wear good bike gloves with the padding. Pay a bit and get them at bike shops; why have unnecessary/premature blisters if you don't have to?
• Have sunglasses on the neck rope ready when the sun rises
• Have music appropriate for your individual preference via ipod/mp player to take 'my mind off the 200 lbs' I'm pushing up hills. Make sure the music list are arranged correctly
• up hill I was listening to Celtic traditional...bad choice. 
• when arriving/finishing, I heard Appalachian traditional hymn, 'In my time of dying...'. bad choice. This made my 'noodle legs' a laughing moment.
• In my mp player I have: Rap, Bluegrass, Kpop (my fave), Traditional Gospel with a lot of hand clapping/moves, Celtic is ok if traditional reels, but the 'passion/grieving' traditional songs are 'downers' when trying to climb, Bach piano inventions are wonderful, the cello suites have slower movements and can be 'downers', Early music, motets, European court dance music is great with strong rhythms
• Bike routes are not always appropriate; I have a commuting bike for concrete, the bike paths are for recreation and 'dirt/mountain' bikes as they are sand/gravel and did not work for me.
• Leave early to miss traffic
• I left before 7 am weekday; the traffic really got uncomfortable half way on 421 highway
• Next time I will leave 6 am
• Ride light in back pack. 
• Plan a day ahead to have sufficient toiletries/clean dress clothes at work waiting on you 
• The only thing in the back pack is wallet, keys, cell phone, good walking shoes may be good if you have to walk. Bike shoes are not conducive for walking.
• I had everything I needed at work except forgot hose and had to carry my work shoes in my back pack...it still worked and wasn't too heavy. I couldn't change at work and hoped since Halloween was coming/Friday, I'd get away with the drastic 'dress down'. Not recommended.
• Make sure you can store daily necessities in your work desk or have access to athletic shower/locker before work. 
• Use 'shower in can' or sponge bath...be considerate of the work place.

Culture Awareness - My Wonderful World

'Riding the Wind on my Bike Through a Small World'
Anita Mullins Brown, 2013
With all respect to dearest family friends who taught me to value human life.

I rode to Italy and spent time with the goodness of Gingolas, Capitenas, Napis, Serpicos, and Mutos;
Bernie taught me about Our Lady of Lourdes and everyone loves healing.
and I rode the wind learning the beautiful gift of tolerant acceptance;

I rode to England and spent time with the Pearsons as I watched a master carpenter at work;
and I rode the wind learning the beautiful gift of tolerant acceptance;

I rode to Puerto Rico and worshiped with my Spanish speaking classmates in their church;
and I rode the wind learning the beautiful gift of tolerant acceptance;

I rode to Israel and shopped for music at Mr. Simon's Music Store who loved to wish me Shalom;

and I rode the wind learning the beautiful gift of tolerant acceptance;

I rode to Scotland and spent time with the Halleens and played with Lori, Robbie, and Ron;
Lori taught me to respect the holy accent of Alexander Graham Bell and the oralist.
and I rode the wind learning the beautiful gift of tolerant acceptance;

I rode to Germany and spent time with the Asmus's playing with Florence and Rudi;
and spent time with Mrs. Berger who taught me Braille and the holiness of Jesus when praying a rosary.
and I rode the wind learning the beautiful gift of tolerant acceptance;

I rode to Hungary and Mrs. Nagy testified in our church of persecuted Christians in Eastern Europe;
and I rode the wind learning the beautiful gift of tolerant acceptance;

I rode to Finland and visited Ollikainen's Music Store and heard him translate for his countrymen;
and I rode the wind learning the beautiful gift of tolerant acceptance;

I rode back home and smelled the lingering fragrance of mother's lilacs and learned to always
ride the wind learning the beautiful gift of tolerant acceptance.

Humanity - Counted in the Number

'Upon seeing images from Numbered'
Documentary Photographs by Uriel Sinai, text by Dana Doron
Getty Photography, New York Times© copyright 1999-2011 Getty Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

Beautiful is the mark of the Benevolent Creator;
Mark me too, O Creator, mark me as yours.
I will be your doorkeeper,
I will be your prophet who announces your goodness.

The beauty that comes from the mark of the Creator...
His Presence, His House, His Lands, His Image on every face...

Beautiful is the mark of the Benevolent Creator;
Mark me too, O Creator, mark me as yours.
Then I will be your champion; defending your honor.
This Life with His Mark is the beautiful life.
by Anita Mullins Brown, 2013

Prayer - Affected by Random Shootings

It feels as though I have seen too much in a lifetime. There are times when 'Neverland' might be a worthy retirement home or just embracing the 'inner child' to cope when life seems too hard. 

Then I remembered the best consolation far greater than these is a beautiful prayer for the Presence of God found in my old Jewish Prayer Book.

 "The Order of Putting on the Tallith and Tephillin: Blessed art thou, O Lord, our God, King of the universe, who hath sanctified us by his commandments, and hath commanded us to enwrap ourselves in the fringed garment. How precious is thy lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men under the shadow of thy wings they take shelter. They shall be satisfied with the fatness of thy house for with thee is the fountain of life; in thy light shall we see light. Continue thy lovingkindenss to them that know thee, and thy righteousness to the upright in heart." 

 I photocopied the pages and put them in my journal, then gave my prayer book to a lady in 1990 who's father was Jewish. I apologize to the NY Council of Rabbis for failing to cite properly and hope all human beings will learn (start the work in me first) to respect human life and find need for the Blessed Creator. With all good intentions, Anita Mullins Brown, 121512@2 PM.