I just sent this to the Duluth News Tribune:
I have been following the recent news articles on synthetic Marijuana and now Bath Salts for some time, and find the potential for physical abuse or government meddling to be interesting. Serving as a Chaplain in both local hospitals, and speaking only for myself, I am forced to say that the side effects I have seen both in my workplace and on the streets are heartbreaking.
It was with much disdain I read the following comments from Mr Jim Larson, owner of THE LAST PLACE ON EARTH in the Duluth News Tribune this week: " he has a concern for people’s health, but he wasn’t sympathetic to the emergency room doctor’s complaint.
“My advice to them is that they should hire some more help,” he said. “We’re supposed to be a free country. ... The bottom line is everybody likes to do different things.”
Several years ago local news reported on a story where an Emergency Room staff member was held against her will by an unstable patient who held a knife to her neck. If that were Mr Larson’s daughter in that situation, I believe he would have a different story to tell.
I have seen friends and coworkers assaulted, had knives pulled on them and threatened infection with HIV by out of control patients. Though I don’t believe he would endorse use of controlled substances, I have seen the deadly effect of First Time use on young adults. Even when those events don’t result in fatality, they do clog the medical facilities ability to treat those who are not suffering from self ingested poison.
That is part of the price which is paid by those suffering bad experiences from legal and illegal products. Medical staff at our local hospitals, as well as Paramedics and EMT's in the field are left to face the abuse and then deal with the emotions of having an otherwise normal individual die a death too early.
So, while Mr Larson does have a right to sell his products, I do wish he could see the effects misuse of them has on others. Oh, and by the way don’t blame the ER staffs when they are over worked. I ask him to consider leaving his wife and daughters to face those threats and attacks. Will you then be so quick to allow others to be placed in that harm?
Robert Saunders
Monday, May 9, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Real American Heroes
A Real American hero
They are all around us, and come from all colors and occupations.
Today I would like to talk about those heroes I have actually met who served in the US Military, and focus on one in particular.
My cousins son is a medic in today’s military. Three or four years ago you may have watched as CNN showed helicopter being shot down in Afghanistan. Most of the crew were killed. Danny’s buddy landed on top of him, the rotor hit and killed him instead of Dan. After several months at Walter reed hospital, he told the Dr the only discharge he would take was back to his old outfit, where he eventually wound up.
Another Televised hero was on national news one night during the Iraqi war. It was during the time of the Abu Ghraib scandal, this young mans Humvee was patrolling the streets around the prison when an IED went off. You wouldn’t know he was disabled unless you were in a conversation and he told you he was retired with a traumatic brain injury.
I have met vets who were amongst the Chosin Frozen in the Korean war, as well as marines who watched their buddies die in the Dominican Republic in the early 60's. In the past month i have done funerals for Vietnam vets who served more than one tour of duty, when they returned, they were not the same young men who left Duluth. One dear friend spent nearly a year in a fetal position back in 1970, he watched as two buddies died trying to rescue him.
The list goes on and on, PT boat Captains. Paratroopers from 'Nam and WW2. Two men who flew with the Flying Tigers. Some were men who found faith easy until they lived one thing too much. Hero’s all.
I have had the opportunity to thank countless Native Americans who wear the Vietnam Service ribbon colors on their hats. They have the look of those who lived one day too many in the bush.
For a moment I want to focus on Joe, one of the nicest kindest men I have ever met. He was a customer of mine 20 years ago when I worked at Sears. I saw him again yesterday and took the time to thank him properly. Joe flew P 51 mustangs in the war, protecting Bombers as they flew into Germany. He was a Tuskegee Airman,one of the bravest squadrons of the war. If I recall correctly, his outfit never lost a plane under their protection. They were men of color, Black men who as Joe said, fought a tougher battle here in the states to defend Our Country then they did in the skies over Europe. I told him how wrong that was, how sorry I felt about it happening. we continued to talk, I promised to pray as his name came to mind. He is a true gentleman, a real American hero.
I have another friend who was in the marines. We go to church together and infrequently get the chance to talk. A few months ago I asked him what It was like to live as a gay man raising a child here in Duluth. I have seen he and his partner with their son, they do such a great job as parents It has brought me to tears. They struggle with everyday family stuff like all parents. Plus the unkind looks of those who disapprove.
My friend Liz is a lesbian, she has been in a solid committed relationship for ten years now. There has never been a time when she hasn’t supported me. I was a real shit when she came out to me six years ago. I made her tell me, instead of allowing me to guess and understand. I think it was because I wanted her to know how much I loved her for who she was, not a label someone may put on her.
One of my oldest best friends best friend died four years ago. He was stationed at the base here in Duluth, ran the flight line for the aircraft as they returned. He married a girl from Superior, and had two kids in addition to her one. He cried when he heard how his bi racial son was treated by some teachers at the elementary school., A real hero still fighting the battle.
When I worked at sears I worked with CC, a man whose home was South Central Los Angeles. Our conversations covered many areas, including racism and stereotypes. One day CC asked me what I would call 10 teenage boys who wore the same colors, walking down the street jumping shouting and laughing at unheard jokes. Well says I, "A Gang" . "Did the words basketball team ever cross your mind? Sadly no, in fact it never came close.
It really hurt to acknowledge Joe's words they other day."The battle here was tougher than what we faced over there." I am still thinking about it nearly two days later. It is not just the fact of the color of a mans skin, the gender of ones partner or the type of job one does. Hatred is still alive and well here in America. I still stereotype others I done know, even tho I hope to be genuine in my Christianity. Too often I think "street gang" or "Punks" instead of kids just hanging together having fun. Being loud kids just as I was. When I am afraid of another, then I use whatever tools I can find to protect myself. Unfortunately too often it is a stereotype that demeans the other.
I don't like the fact that at times I am an opinionated ageist sexist dominant culture male with a need to be right. I am that sinner.
The Love Chapter, 1st Corinthians 13 convicts me each time I read it. Unless I have love, I am nothing at all. I, we need to get out of our box and touch another. Regardless of OUR race, color or creed. Perhaps then we all can join celebrating those real American heroes who live next door.
Thanks to my friend who challenged me to write again.
They are all around us, and come from all colors and occupations.
Today I would like to talk about those heroes I have actually met who served in the US Military, and focus on one in particular.
My cousins son is a medic in today’s military. Three or four years ago you may have watched as CNN showed helicopter being shot down in Afghanistan. Most of the crew were killed. Danny’s buddy landed on top of him, the rotor hit and killed him instead of Dan. After several months at Walter reed hospital, he told the Dr the only discharge he would take was back to his old outfit, where he eventually wound up.
Another Televised hero was on national news one night during the Iraqi war. It was during the time of the Abu Ghraib scandal, this young mans Humvee was patrolling the streets around the prison when an IED went off. You wouldn’t know he was disabled unless you were in a conversation and he told you he was retired with a traumatic brain injury.
I have met vets who were amongst the Chosin Frozen in the Korean war, as well as marines who watched their buddies die in the Dominican Republic in the early 60's. In the past month i have done funerals for Vietnam vets who served more than one tour of duty, when they returned, they were not the same young men who left Duluth. One dear friend spent nearly a year in a fetal position back in 1970, he watched as two buddies died trying to rescue him.
The list goes on and on, PT boat Captains. Paratroopers from 'Nam and WW2. Two men who flew with the Flying Tigers. Some were men who found faith easy until they lived one thing too much. Hero’s all.
I have had the opportunity to thank countless Native Americans who wear the Vietnam Service ribbon colors on their hats. They have the look of those who lived one day too many in the bush.
For a moment I want to focus on Joe, one of the nicest kindest men I have ever met. He was a customer of mine 20 years ago when I worked at Sears. I saw him again yesterday and took the time to thank him properly. Joe flew P 51 mustangs in the war, protecting Bombers as they flew into Germany. He was a Tuskegee Airman,one of the bravest squadrons of the war. If I recall correctly, his outfit never lost a plane under their protection. They were men of color, Black men who as Joe said, fought a tougher battle here in the states to defend Our Country then they did in the skies over Europe. I told him how wrong that was, how sorry I felt about it happening. we continued to talk, I promised to pray as his name came to mind. He is a true gentleman, a real American hero.
I have another friend who was in the marines. We go to church together and infrequently get the chance to talk. A few months ago I asked him what It was like to live as a gay man raising a child here in Duluth. I have seen he and his partner with their son, they do such a great job as parents It has brought me to tears. They struggle with everyday family stuff like all parents. Plus the unkind looks of those who disapprove.
My friend Liz is a lesbian, she has been in a solid committed relationship for ten years now. There has never been a time when she hasn’t supported me. I was a real shit when she came out to me six years ago. I made her tell me, instead of allowing me to guess and understand. I think it was because I wanted her to know how much I loved her for who she was, not a label someone may put on her.
One of my oldest best friends best friend died four years ago. He was stationed at the base here in Duluth, ran the flight line for the aircraft as they returned. He married a girl from Superior, and had two kids in addition to her one. He cried when he heard how his bi racial son was treated by some teachers at the elementary school., A real hero still fighting the battle.
When I worked at sears I worked with CC, a man whose home was South Central Los Angeles. Our conversations covered many areas, including racism and stereotypes. One day CC asked me what I would call 10 teenage boys who wore the same colors, walking down the street jumping shouting and laughing at unheard jokes. Well says I, "A Gang" . "Did the words basketball team ever cross your mind? Sadly no, in fact it never came close.
It really hurt to acknowledge Joe's words they other day."The battle here was tougher than what we faced over there." I am still thinking about it nearly two days later. It is not just the fact of the color of a mans skin, the gender of ones partner or the type of job one does. Hatred is still alive and well here in America. I still stereotype others I done know, even tho I hope to be genuine in my Christianity. Too often I think "street gang" or "Punks" instead of kids just hanging together having fun. Being loud kids just as I was. When I am afraid of another, then I use whatever tools I can find to protect myself. Unfortunately too often it is a stereotype that demeans the other.
I don't like the fact that at times I am an opinionated ageist sexist dominant culture male with a need to be right. I am that sinner.
The Love Chapter, 1st Corinthians 13 convicts me each time I read it. Unless I have love, I am nothing at all. I, we need to get out of our box and touch another. Regardless of OUR race, color or creed. Perhaps then we all can join celebrating those real American heroes who live next door.
Thanks to my friend who challenged me to write again.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Essentia Health purchased by Muslims! No Nativity scenes allowed!!!
Essentia Health purchased by Muslims! No Nativity scenes allowed!!!
That’s what I learned yesterday when I came to work. A friend that I have known for 30 years made that announcement to me, as I entered the lobby of St Marys Hospital - Superior. "Look around, where is the nativity scene?" You don't see His name anywhere. Is it true they sold out to the Muslims?
I was embarrassed. Not for my employer or the hospital we stood in, but for my friend and others who believe what seems to me to be foolish rumors. I told her so.
No. Outright point blank no. Essentia Health hasn't been sold, not to anyone. I am not familiar with the Christmas decorations in St Mary’s Hospital in Superior, yet I know that St Marys' Duluth has a nativity scene which stretches out perhaps 20 feet. It is on display as I write this, the day after my friend spoke with me.
Why is it that everything Anti - Christian needs to be Islamic in nature or origin today? I don't know a lot of Muslim folks, the ones I do I think very highly of. They are wonderful loving folks who work hard, study their scriptures {oftentimes more than I study mine} and live outstanding moral lives. Granted, if you are a conservative evangelical christian, you believe their traditions are wrong. My friends and I have acknowledged the differences in our beliefs. We pray for each other, that God leads us through the day. I believe our prayers are answered.
Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the Gates of Hell SHALL NOT PREVAIL AGAINST IT! {my emphasis} It seems to me that so many Christians need to live in an alarmist state to be happy. It appears that the eleventh gift of the Holy Spirit is rumor mongering, the tenth being condemnation. In today’s world we cannot imagine the atrocities early Christians were forced to endure. A father walking with his family could be forced to carry a roman soldiers armor and arms a mile, with no recourse except for the fact that Jesus said “Carry it two miles.” I remember Proctor and Gamble being boycotted for their corporate star symbols, the fear was that it was satanic. Yet Paul stated that if we had clear conscious, we could eat meat purchased market place, even knowing that it was offered to idols. Abstain only if it may offend your neighbor. Be upset because your employer deducted your bible study time from your paycheck, or lose your life for not bowing to worship the Emperor who was paying your salary.
Dow we lose the right to have concerns for the course of our society? Absolutely not. But instead of spreading and believing wild stories, lets consider using scriptural examples to guide our lives. Chronicles 7:14 says “Humble YOURSELVES, Pray, seek my face, cease YOUR wicked ways, Then I will heal your land.” Galatians 5:22 states: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control ... Against such things there is no law! Allow the work of the Holy Spirit to be seen in your lives, worry less about losing your rights. Even those impressed into service by soldiers were told to willing serve more than expected. Matthew 5:41. Should I do less?
Many times in my life I have struggled with keeping the rules. In this sense, if I have to, why don't others? Believe me, I can make the arguments well. But that is not how Christ wants me to respond. Jesus was talking with the disciple who said he would follow Him anywhere. Peter didn’t like hearing what Jesus was saying and almost immediately asked, “What about him? Inferring the apostle John. The response was “You let me worry about him, you take care of your self”
Let the Lord worry about what religions are where, we need to worry about how we walk with him. If indeed this is a personal belief, it should be replicated personally in our lives. Jesus said “Tarry ye here in Jerusalem until you receive the Holy Spirit ... you shall be my WITNESSES” The Greek word for witness is martus, for which we get the word Martyr. The implication is a lifestyle apparent in a culture where death was possible for your beliefs, not the ability to see who could speak the loudest.
I don’t so much need to defend God with my words, as I need to display His love in my actions.
Nuff said.
That’s what I learned yesterday when I came to work. A friend that I have known for 30 years made that announcement to me, as I entered the lobby of St Marys Hospital - Superior. "Look around, where is the nativity scene?" You don't see His name anywhere. Is it true they sold out to the Muslims?
I was embarrassed. Not for my employer or the hospital we stood in, but for my friend and others who believe what seems to me to be foolish rumors. I told her so.
No. Outright point blank no. Essentia Health hasn't been sold, not to anyone. I am not familiar with the Christmas decorations in St Mary’s Hospital in Superior, yet I know that St Marys' Duluth has a nativity scene which stretches out perhaps 20 feet. It is on display as I write this, the day after my friend spoke with me.
Why is it that everything Anti - Christian needs to be Islamic in nature or origin today? I don't know a lot of Muslim folks, the ones I do I think very highly of. They are wonderful loving folks who work hard, study their scriptures {oftentimes more than I study mine} and live outstanding moral lives. Granted, if you are a conservative evangelical christian, you believe their traditions are wrong. My friends and I have acknowledged the differences in our beliefs. We pray for each other, that God leads us through the day. I believe our prayers are answered.
Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the Gates of Hell SHALL NOT PREVAIL AGAINST IT! {my emphasis} It seems to me that so many Christians need to live in an alarmist state to be happy. It appears that the eleventh gift of the Holy Spirit is rumor mongering, the tenth being condemnation. In today’s world we cannot imagine the atrocities early Christians were forced to endure. A father walking with his family could be forced to carry a roman soldiers armor and arms a mile, with no recourse except for the fact that Jesus said “Carry it two miles.” I remember Proctor and Gamble being boycotted for their corporate star symbols, the fear was that it was satanic. Yet Paul stated that if we had clear conscious, we could eat meat purchased market place, even knowing that it was offered to idols. Abstain only if it may offend your neighbor. Be upset because your employer deducted your bible study time from your paycheck, or lose your life for not bowing to worship the Emperor who was paying your salary.
Dow we lose the right to have concerns for the course of our society? Absolutely not. But instead of spreading and believing wild stories, lets consider using scriptural examples to guide our lives. Chronicles 7:14 says “Humble YOURSELVES, Pray, seek my face, cease YOUR wicked ways, Then I will heal your land.” Galatians 5:22 states: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control ... Against such things there is no law! Allow the work of the Holy Spirit to be seen in your lives, worry less about losing your rights. Even those impressed into service by soldiers were told to willing serve more than expected. Matthew 5:41. Should I do less?
Many times in my life I have struggled with keeping the rules. In this sense, if I have to, why don't others? Believe me, I can make the arguments well. But that is not how Christ wants me to respond. Jesus was talking with the disciple who said he would follow Him anywhere. Peter didn’t like hearing what Jesus was saying and almost immediately asked, “What about him? Inferring the apostle John. The response was “You let me worry about him, you take care of your self”
Let the Lord worry about what religions are where, we need to worry about how we walk with him. If indeed this is a personal belief, it should be replicated personally in our lives. Jesus said “Tarry ye here in Jerusalem until you receive the Holy Spirit ... you shall be my WITNESSES” The Greek word for witness is martus, for which we get the word Martyr. The implication is a lifestyle apparent in a culture where death was possible for your beliefs, not the ability to see who could speak the loudest.
I don’t so much need to defend God with my words, as I need to display His love in my actions.
Nuff said.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
I HATE THOSE ROOMS
Most of the time family rooms are good things. just for those reasons. You can laugh and cry, sleep or pray. In fact all the time they are good things.
I remember bringing a mom to our ER room one night. Her daughter would be OK, the injuries were far less than originally conceived. All was well until she heard someone say. "The Chaplain is bringing her to the family room." Both arms were thrust out towards sidewalls, a scream filled the air. "YOU ARE NOT TAKING ME INTO THAT ROOM. YOU AREN'T GOING TO TELL ME MY DAUGHTER IS DEAD!" Its the screams I remember the loudest.
And the tears.
Last night I had to bring a man and his wife to one of those rooms. His father was My age. He had just came from surgery and passed away quite unexpectedly. "Lets go in here, it's more comfortable ... and private. Please sit down. Here is your fathers nurse. I am so sorry... we have some difficult news for you...
I hate those rooms.
I remember bringing a mom to our ER room one night. Her daughter would be OK, the injuries were far less than originally conceived. All was well until she heard someone say. "The Chaplain is bringing her to the family room." Both arms were thrust out towards sidewalls, a scream filled the air. "YOU ARE NOT TAKING ME INTO THAT ROOM. YOU AREN'T GOING TO TELL ME MY DAUGHTER IS DEAD!" Its the screams I remember the loudest.
And the tears.
Last night I had to bring a man and his wife to one of those rooms. His father was My age. He had just came from surgery and passed away quite unexpectedly. "Lets go in here, it's more comfortable ... and private. Please sit down. Here is your fathers nurse. I am so sorry... we have some difficult news for you...
I hate those rooms.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Recycling and the green movement at Wally World
Hey Wal-Mart, Gimme a Break!!!
For the record, I enjoy shopping at Walmart. I find generally good merchandise at reasonable prices. Even better prices in the past month with renewed rollbacks in many areas around the store.
So whats my complaint? No, it isn't the fake “Was” pricing shown next to new the selling price. {tho there oughta be a law against either putting such foolishness on a sign or being one who believes it was actually sold for that price to begin with.
No, its not the fact that most meat has anywhere from eight to twelve percent fluid {water} added. Supposedly for tenderness or whatever. To my recollection, except for smoked hams which are naturally dry, this is not an industry practice other than coming from Bentonville. The deceptive practice doesn't bother me, I just don't purchase meat there. No problem.
I went to my local wally world tonight. First to make a return, then to purchase some other items. {35 bucks worth it turned out. Bruce the greeter was sorting through plastic bags, you know, the kind that get recycled at the main doors. Sorting them out. White Wally World bags in one cart, brown Super one bags along with anything NOT from Wally World going in the other cart. “Watcha doin?” I asked. “Sortin bags” says Bruce. Watcha gonna do with those bags in that cart? Asks I. “Garbage” says Bruce, “they get thrown out.”
Ok, I can take the truth being stretched on pricing and water added chickens, but why, when Wal Mart professes to be oh so green can't they be honest with their customers and say, ” We ONLY recycle Wal Mart bags” I understand why the practice is done, the scrap price for clean sorted bags is higher than mixed color bags. {My Brother in law was in the plastic film business for thirty years.} I'm just asking, why cant you be honest here Walmart? We all can bring our Bags to Super One Grocery when we shop there. {Aye, Thats the rub!}
OK, my rant is a small bit in the ecological movement. Or the honesty movement. But is this gets under your skin like it did mine, call the Superior Walmart at 715-392-6060 and ask to speak with the store general manager. Her name is KarenLee something. Let her know what you think, just be polite. You could {as I also can} contact the Regional manager or National headquarters in Bentonville Arkansas and ask they they present an honest approach to being green.
Nuff said for my rant, I gotta go back and pick up some paint. Good stuff, great price.
For the record, I enjoy shopping at Walmart. I find generally good merchandise at reasonable prices. Even better prices in the past month with renewed rollbacks in many areas around the store.
So whats my complaint? No, it isn't the fake “Was” pricing shown next to new the selling price. {tho there oughta be a law against either putting such foolishness on a sign or being one who believes it was actually sold for that price to begin with.
No, its not the fact that most meat has anywhere from eight to twelve percent fluid {water} added. Supposedly for tenderness or whatever. To my recollection, except for smoked hams which are naturally dry, this is not an industry practice other than coming from Bentonville. The deceptive practice doesn't bother me, I just don't purchase meat there. No problem.
I went to my local wally world tonight. First to make a return, then to purchase some other items. {35 bucks worth it turned out. Bruce the greeter was sorting through plastic bags, you know, the kind that get recycled at the main doors. Sorting them out. White Wally World bags in one cart, brown Super one bags along with anything NOT from Wally World going in the other cart. “Watcha doin?” I asked. “Sortin bags” says Bruce. Watcha gonna do with those bags in that cart? Asks I. “Garbage” says Bruce, “they get thrown out.”
Ok, I can take the truth being stretched on pricing and water added chickens, but why, when Wal Mart professes to be oh so green can't they be honest with their customers and say, ” We ONLY recycle Wal Mart bags” I understand why the practice is done, the scrap price for clean sorted bags is higher than mixed color bags. {My Brother in law was in the plastic film business for thirty years.} I'm just asking, why cant you be honest here Walmart? We all can bring our Bags to Super One Grocery when we shop there. {Aye, Thats the rub!}
OK, my rant is a small bit in the ecological movement. Or the honesty movement. But is this gets under your skin like it did mine, call the Superior Walmart at 715-392-6060 and ask to speak with the store general manager. Her name is KarenLee something. Let her know what you think, just be polite. You could {as I also can} contact the Regional manager or National headquarters in Bentonville Arkansas and ask they they present an honest approach to being green.
Nuff said for my rant, I gotta go back and pick up some paint. Good stuff, great price.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
This land is your land, this land is my land....
This land is your land, this land is my land....
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14
Shortly after I converted to Christianity, I heard an an old Wisconsin Synod Lutheran preacher speak at my new church. The mans name was A.G. Dornfeld, he often spoke and ministered on the Holy Spirit. He also carried cases of fliers with him, One said, Righteousness exalts a nation, yet Sin is a reproach to any land. The other had the familiar verse about humbling ourselves, ceasing sin, and seeking God. Then he would heal our land. This seems to be the responsibility of those who call themselves Christian, yet somehow we like to put the responsibility on those who live outside what is considered Evangelical Christianity.
For some time now, this scripture has been pricking my thoughts and prayer life. Repent, turn from sin. All that bad stuff I enjoy yet hate to have others see. I haven't been in any fights or had a drunken spell lately so obviously He isn't talking to me. Yet I do hear this quiet little voice saying, “Be Nicer to that person” “don't be so harsh. Let me be reflected in your daily life.” It is a severe challenge. I do enjoy honking the horn at those who cut me off or turn in front of me. I am close enough to 300 pounds, yet I shake my head at the 500 pounders I see walking down the street. My problem, after all, started when I was just 5. Whats theirs? Have they no self control?
A year or two ago, my cousins daughter died a month after being beaten, apparently by her boyfriend. When I saw her last, she was a vivacious, rambunctious young lady getting ready to graduate from High School. She had a professional nursing career and family. Then somehow, Meth- amphetamine found a way to destroy her. This once lovely woman had lost herself to the drug, it destroyed her persona and her vivaciousness.
Last fall I called my nephew. We spoke for a few minutes, he began to choke up. One of the young ladies he had dated in High School had recently passed away, following weeks in an ICU after a heart attack. She was a young professional, a wife and mom who was afflicted with eating disorders as a teenager. Again, a lovely young woman who was a joy to be around. Drugs and alcohol robbed her kids of a mother, a husband of his mate.
This week a bus driver on the North Shore of Minnesota has been charged with assaulting four young girls, many of them pre- teens. Another young girl has been repeatedly molested by a man known to her family. Their innocence stolen at an early age. The list goes on and on.
My friends, the responsibility is ours to bring this nightmare to an end. The work isn't hard, yet it will be life changing. Sit in your chair, or on your bed, or kneeling at your pew, and listen to that still small voice, hearing how God wants to work in your life. Follow through on the very best that there is for us. When WE continually do that, we then can pray effectively for our nation. God will heal our land, restoring that which has been stolen, revitalizing our land. I believe that is our only hope.
So, in the past months, I have been checking my thoughts regularly, and asking to be more responsive than reactive. To be a mirror reflecting Gods love to others, even those I don't really care for. In return, I am making and growing many more friendships, and having a sense of the presence and Peace of God in a gentle and intimate way. I often fail, yet I try to get up walk again.
Please join me in prayer for our region. That our women and girls and boys would be protected from those who would abuse and hurt them. That stashes of drugs would be revealed and confiscated. That the dealers would be found out. It is Gods responsibility, and our only hope. Too many have had their lives stolen away, too many cannot face a normal day. Too many cry themselves to sleep because they have been betrayed by one who should have been trustworthy, but chose not to be.
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14
Shortly after I converted to Christianity, I heard an an old Wisconsin Synod Lutheran preacher speak at my new church. The mans name was A.G. Dornfeld, he often spoke and ministered on the Holy Spirit. He also carried cases of fliers with him, One said, Righteousness exalts a nation, yet Sin is a reproach to any land. The other had the familiar verse about humbling ourselves, ceasing sin, and seeking God. Then he would heal our land. This seems to be the responsibility of those who call themselves Christian, yet somehow we like to put the responsibility on those who live outside what is considered Evangelical Christianity.
For some time now, this scripture has been pricking my thoughts and prayer life. Repent, turn from sin. All that bad stuff I enjoy yet hate to have others see. I haven't been in any fights or had a drunken spell lately so obviously He isn't talking to me. Yet I do hear this quiet little voice saying, “Be Nicer to that person” “don't be so harsh. Let me be reflected in your daily life.” It is a severe challenge. I do enjoy honking the horn at those who cut me off or turn in front of me. I am close enough to 300 pounds, yet I shake my head at the 500 pounders I see walking down the street. My problem, after all, started when I was just 5. Whats theirs? Have they no self control?
A year or two ago, my cousins daughter died a month after being beaten, apparently by her boyfriend. When I saw her last, she was a vivacious, rambunctious young lady getting ready to graduate from High School. She had a professional nursing career and family. Then somehow, Meth- amphetamine found a way to destroy her. This once lovely woman had lost herself to the drug, it destroyed her persona and her vivaciousness.
Last fall I called my nephew. We spoke for a few minutes, he began to choke up. One of the young ladies he had dated in High School had recently passed away, following weeks in an ICU after a heart attack. She was a young professional, a wife and mom who was afflicted with eating disorders as a teenager. Again, a lovely young woman who was a joy to be around. Drugs and alcohol robbed her kids of a mother, a husband of his mate.
This week a bus driver on the North Shore of Minnesota has been charged with assaulting four young girls, many of them pre- teens. Another young girl has been repeatedly molested by a man known to her family. Their innocence stolen at an early age. The list goes on and on.
My friends, the responsibility is ours to bring this nightmare to an end. The work isn't hard, yet it will be life changing. Sit in your chair, or on your bed, or kneeling at your pew, and listen to that still small voice, hearing how God wants to work in your life. Follow through on the very best that there is for us. When WE continually do that, we then can pray effectively for our nation. God will heal our land, restoring that which has been stolen, revitalizing our land. I believe that is our only hope.
So, in the past months, I have been checking my thoughts regularly, and asking to be more responsive than reactive. To be a mirror reflecting Gods love to others, even those I don't really care for. In return, I am making and growing many more friendships, and having a sense of the presence and Peace of God in a gentle and intimate way. I often fail, yet I try to get up walk again.
Please join me in prayer for our region. That our women and girls and boys would be protected from those who would abuse and hurt them. That stashes of drugs would be revealed and confiscated. That the dealers would be found out. It is Gods responsibility, and our only hope. Too many have had their lives stolen away, too many cannot face a normal day. Too many cry themselves to sleep because they have been betrayed by one who should have been trustworthy, but chose not to be.
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10
Friday, April 2, 2010
Constitutinal rights,Christian standards and Witness.
You know, I haven't had health insurance since 2001.
Not that it isn't available, I do qualify for WI High Risk insurance. Last time i checked the premium 2 years ago it was 2200+ per month. Not 22 dollars. Two Thousand two hundred plus per month.Thats a few thousand more than I make in a year as a Chaplain.
I have had something like 9 or 10 major surgeries, 12 or 14 cat scans, 4 MRI's 1 colonoscopy 16 shots of steroids and hundreds of PT appointments since 1993.
I had a cancer that only 13 others had experienced. Fortunately, it was one of the few non-lethal types.
Dad had stage 3+ colon cancer when discovered, stage 4 at surgery. It has been 8 years since my last colonoscopy, one would sure set my mind at ease. One major argument against the presidents health plan is that the government doesn't have constitutional right to institute it, or that it is a violation of our constitution to implement it.
As a country, and as Christians, we have been more than willing to give up constitutional rights, depending on who proposed that loss. {IMHO}
If anyone wants to take me to task, read through the Patriot Act,see what rights we gave up under G W Bush. More than you would ever believe.
I am getting at the point that it seem that if something is proposed by a liberal, or democratic person, president or institution, it must be bad. Be honest, look closely. Tho we may prefer conservative govt, many conservative republicans are as "degenerate" as those liberal democrats. {only half in jest} Barney Frank may be gay, but it was a Conservative rep from Florida who headed a committee to protect abused children that was in fact soliciting young male pages with texts. Bill Clinton had extramarital affairs, the Governor of one of the Carolinas' has been in adultery for several years. We hate democrats big wasteful government, yet it was under the Bush Administration that the bureaucracy grew the largest ever. Senators and congressmen of both parties have benefits which the average citizen cannot dream of. One term in Congress gives health care for life. It goes on ad finitum, ad nauseum.
There, I probably have offended a few friends and several I don't know. I have been on a "Kick" about consistency tho. Lets be honest,be real and apply the same rules, conscience or standards to ourselves first, and walk perfectly, before we expect others to live up to our standards.
I work with an incredible nurse, one of the finest ICU nurses I've ever seen. I would want her to care for myself, family or the ones I love. After 5 years of working together she fessed up, " I don't believe in God". She was expecting the worst from me. I took a deep breath and asked Why. Her response was chilling. "I have worked here 22 years. Since I started, Born Again Christians have been coming here, telling me what I had to believe, and how I was supposed to live. So I watched them, for all these years. The same folks who were telling me how wrong I was were lying, stealing, cheating on their wives or husband, not paying their taxes.I came to believe that IF THERE REALLY WAS A GOD, THEY WOULDN'T DARE SAY ONE THING AND LIVE THE OPPOSITE. THEY WOULD BE TOO AFRAID.They have proven to me by Their actions there is no God.we aren't talking about a person who is blaming Church Hypocrites, we are talking about a person who studied the most outspoken religious folks she knew, heard their words, and saw their actions.
Jesus said: Tarry ye here in Jerusalem until you are endued with Power from above, and you shall be my witnesses" the Greek word for witness is Martus, which certainly implies a lifestyle rather than a bullhorn.
Ok, so this really doesn't have a lot to do with President Obamas' denial of constitutional rights. It does however speak to evangelical Christianity's do what I tell you you need to do, not as I do attitude. If I don't like it, it must be wrong. It is an attitude I haven't seen Jesus express in Scripture.
More in the future....
Not that it isn't available, I do qualify for WI High Risk insurance. Last time i checked the premium 2 years ago it was 2200+ per month. Not 22 dollars. Two Thousand two hundred plus per month.Thats a few thousand more than I make in a year as a Chaplain.
I have had something like 9 or 10 major surgeries, 12 or 14 cat scans, 4 MRI's 1 colonoscopy 16 shots of steroids and hundreds of PT appointments since 1993.
I had a cancer that only 13 others had experienced. Fortunately, it was one of the few non-lethal types.
Dad had stage 3+ colon cancer when discovered, stage 4 at surgery. It has been 8 years since my last colonoscopy, one would sure set my mind at ease. One major argument against the presidents health plan is that the government doesn't have constitutional right to institute it, or that it is a violation of our constitution to implement it.
As a country, and as Christians, we have been more than willing to give up constitutional rights, depending on who proposed that loss. {IMHO}
If anyone wants to take me to task, read through the Patriot Act,see what rights we gave up under G W Bush. More than you would ever believe.
I am getting at the point that it seem that if something is proposed by a liberal, or democratic person, president or institution, it must be bad. Be honest, look closely. Tho we may prefer conservative govt, many conservative republicans are as "degenerate" as those liberal democrats. {only half in jest} Barney Frank may be gay, but it was a Conservative rep from Florida who headed a committee to protect abused children that was in fact soliciting young male pages with texts. Bill Clinton had extramarital affairs, the Governor of one of the Carolinas' has been in adultery for several years. We hate democrats big wasteful government, yet it was under the Bush Administration that the bureaucracy grew the largest ever. Senators and congressmen of both parties have benefits which the average citizen cannot dream of. One term in Congress gives health care for life. It goes on ad finitum, ad nauseum.
There, I probably have offended a few friends and several I don't know. I have been on a "Kick" about consistency tho. Lets be honest,be real and apply the same rules, conscience or standards to ourselves first, and walk perfectly, before we expect others to live up to our standards.
I work with an incredible nurse, one of the finest ICU nurses I've ever seen. I would want her to care for myself, family or the ones I love. After 5 years of working together she fessed up, " I don't believe in God". She was expecting the worst from me. I took a deep breath and asked Why. Her response was chilling. "I have worked here 22 years. Since I started, Born Again Christians have been coming here, telling me what I had to believe, and how I was supposed to live. So I watched them, for all these years. The same folks who were telling me how wrong I was were lying, stealing, cheating on their wives or husband, not paying their taxes.I came to believe that IF THERE REALLY WAS A GOD, THEY WOULDN'T DARE SAY ONE THING AND LIVE THE OPPOSITE. THEY WOULD BE TOO AFRAID.They have proven to me by Their actions there is no God.we aren't talking about a person who is blaming Church Hypocrites, we are talking about a person who studied the most outspoken religious folks she knew, heard their words, and saw their actions.
Jesus said: Tarry ye here in Jerusalem until you are endued with Power from above, and you shall be my witnesses" the Greek word for witness is Martus, which certainly implies a lifestyle rather than a bullhorn.
Ok, so this really doesn't have a lot to do with President Obamas' denial of constitutional rights. It does however speak to evangelical Christianity's do what I tell you you need to do, not as I do attitude. If I don't like it, it must be wrong. It is an attitude I haven't seen Jesus express in Scripture.
More in the future....
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