Here is my hypothesis on the economy. Using the market as a measure of our economy, I submit that one of the biggest problems is a crisis of confidence. Those with the ability to invest capital drive this economy one direction or another. At this time those people are afraid, and rightfully so. Their president has done nothing but show pessimism since he has been in office. He used (some would say ginned up) the crisis to promote enormous wasteful spending. People with money to invest saw the danger in that, especially in an already tenuous situation. The reports of massive pork barrel spending only added to the suspicions of many. People are confused about how the President plans to cut the deficit in half while at the same time increasing spending at the most rapid rate in history. They were already concerned about taxes and this only adds to their concern. Then, of course, there is the inevitable inertia factor.
What we need right now is the President to show true leadership. I suspect that he won’t do this. I wish we had a president who would address the nation something like the following:
While I acknowledge the difficulties we are having as a nation, I want to assure you that the United States will survive, and eventually we will thrive again. Recovery does not begin in Washington D.C. I am calling on all Americans to join me in the following steps to recovery. First, as a nation we need to humble ourselves before God and ask His blessings on this nation, thanking Him for what He has done and for what He will do. Second, I am asking every able-bodied and sound-minded individual to take responsibility for your own destiny and the destiny of your family. Work harder than ever before. Invest more. Be productive. Do not succumb to the pressures to quit or to fail. Have faith in your country and what it stands for.
Here in Washington, I will not propose or sign any bill containing any unnecessary spending. I will also be cutting spending across the board in any federal agency that is not essential to providing for the common defense or able to demonstrate effectiveness in meeting their stated goals. I will also propose tax cuts on any federal tax that hinders economic growth. I am calling corporate America to cut back. I am calling for an end to runaway greed. I will take the lead on this.
Effective immediately, I will be proposing massive cuts for all Federal elected officials, beginning with me. The elimination of perks normally associated with the Congress will be proposed. Again it will start with the Office of the President. Effective immediately I am issuing an executive order to return spending on my staff and operating expenses to the level it was under President Kennedy, adjusted for inflation.
Some of these measures may sound draconian, but I firmly believe that in order to remain the greatest nation in the world, Americans pull together and make sacrifices. Remember our history. Americans faced tremendous odds in preserving our freedom and prosperity on many occasions. Our mothers and fathers fought, bled, died, and sacrificed. I refuse to let them down. America, we refuse to let them down. Let’s get to work. God bless America.
...
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
My response to the Inaugural speech of Barack Obama.
I know that inauguration speeches are supposed to be vague. Obama's speech was schizophrenic. At times he sounded like a liberal campaigner on the attack against Bush. At others, he sounded like a Reagan conservative. Either way there were no major revelations and no words that warranted being chiseled in granite. Obama, as usual, had a great delivery. Here are a few thoughts.
“The words (oath of office) have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we the people have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears, and true to our founding documents. So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans. That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.”
Our generation does not have the right to claim we are in time of “gathering clouds and raging storms”. We have defeated a dictator in the most powerful Middle Eastern country and have successfully replaced him with a representative democracy that has been embraced by the people. Terrorists who hate America are still out there, but they have been mightily weakened after relentless pursuit by President Bush and our military/intelligence complex. Our economy is in a downturn, but it is not as bad as advertised. Statistically it does not even compare to the poor economy of the late 1970’s. Also not acknowledged are the many modern conveniences that we know consider a right and an entitlement. Personal computers, cell phones, instant messaging and global communications are at the fingertips of the poorest of welfare clients. Economically we are not in a "stormy" environment. On the contrary, we are spoiled.
Obama blames a weakened economy on the greed and irresponsibility of some and our collective failure to make hard choices. This is very vague. Does anyone know who or what he is talking about and what evidence he can offer? The speech only leads one to assume.
The cost of health care is an issue. How much does health care cost the average citizen? Is it worth it? Is our health valuable enough to cause us to spend less on our toys rather than ask the government (i.e., taxpayers) to buy health care for us? What is his plan to change this? Who will pay for it? Will his idea work? We will not learn the answers to those questions from this speech. How does the energy we use threaten our planet? I know the global warming theory and I disagree with it. The Earth has been cooler during the last two years than it has any year since the 1970's. How much money does He plan to sink into this issue? Who knows? Any is too much in my book.
Saying our schools fail too many is a loaded statement. Is he admitting that government run schools are ineffective? How many administrations will we have to live through before we can say that our schools are successful? How much money do we have to pay the education establishment to accomplish this goal? The National Center for Educational Statistics stated that we spent nearly $9300 per pupil in the 2004-2005 school year. This represents a 50 per cent increase in 20 years. Despite this, our schools “still fail too many.” Has anyone considered that the problem may not be with schools? Or, if it is with the schools, has anyone ever thought that maybe we need to change the way schools operate without spending more money? The problem, again, is that one can only assume what he means.
This is political rhetoric meant to lower expectations. If the economy succeeds, Obama becomes a hero. If it remains stagnant or turns downward, it will be blamed on President Bush. That sounds like a no-lose scenario for Mr. Obama. Don’t get me started on how Obama and his liberal colleagues have drifted away from our founding documents. Volumes could be written about that subject.
“On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord. On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.”
This statement irritates me to no end. He is implying that by electing him we have elected the embodiment of hope and purpose. How arrogant! And those who ran against him are the embodiment of fear, conflict, discord, pettiness, false promises, and worn out dogmas. It is distasteful when politicians make these pompous claims during a campaign, but it is a little more understandable in the campaign environment. But can dirty politics and mudslinging be laid to rest at least one day during an inauguration speach? Please.
“We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness. In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted — for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things — some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom. For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life. For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth. For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn. Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.”
It is almost as if a different speechwriter took over the speech at this point. This part was reminiscent of the great words of Lincoln, Kennedy, or Reagan. It is a wonderful description of what has, and does, make America a great country. But again, how will President Obama promote these ideals? That remains to be seen.
“The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act — not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age.”
I am sorry. Our economy does not call for any significant action, at least no more bailouts. President Bush already made that mistake, and it hasn’t helped. More of the same will not help. I thought this was all about change. We do not need to revisit the New Deal, if that is what he is talking about. Excessive spending is part of the problem, not the solution. Our cars run well enough without the sun, wind, and the soil. I am not eager to drive an Obamamobile, powered by a big sail with an ‘O’ on the side. The best changes do not grow out of inauguration speeches. They grow out of necessity and the inventiveness of the American people as they operate in a free market. How much more of our money do they need? Supposedly 600 private jets touched down at Washington’s airport for the inauguration. If we had a crisis, why are his supporters setting new records for consumption of fossil fuels? How does he plan on transforming schools, colleges, and universities? More money? From whom?
“Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage. What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them — that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works — whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. Those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account — to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day — because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.”
Arrogance has returned to the speech. Evidently if you disagree with President Obama, you are automatically labeled a “cynic”. It is not a stale argument to claim that government is too large and too ineffective. The last I checked this was supposedly a government of, by, and for the people. I am glad that he said that programs that do not work should be ended. Maybe I am cynical, but with a Democrat in the White House and a Democrat majority in Congress, I will be very surprised by any cuts in government programs which fail. He already said that public schools have failed too many of our children. Is he going to privatize schools? Who defines failure? How will they be cut? No answers or clues were mentioned in this speech. Will anyone in the media hold him to this promise? I seriously doubt it and I doubt any federal government workers are seriously worried about their program ending.
“And so to all the other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.”
Wow! What a change in policy. Ready to lead? I was under the impression that Obama was against our leadership role in the world. He criticized the lead we took in promoting representative democracy in the Middle East. Based on his campaign rhetoric, I expected one very clear agenda item out of this speech. I expected to hear Obama say, “Effective immediately, I am ordering the immediate withdrawal of all United States troops from Iraq.” This is the expectation he gave us during his campaign against Hillary Clinton, even before the violence was mostly defeated by the troop surge. What is his excuse now for keeping troops in Iraq? He has none.
“Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.”
Principles, justness, example, humility, and restraint. Great words. How does abortion on demand, changing the definition of marriage, and moral filth of the popular culture fit into this template? Obama is firmly on record as supporting the first two and his greatest supporters promote the last one. We are supposed to sit here and believe he is sincere. Obama’s nominee for Treasury Secretary goes four years without paying his taxes. Now, even with this knowledge, Obama is standing by him to head the IRS. Where is the principle, justness, example, humility and restrain in that decision?
I could go on an on. Time does not allow me to rehash all of the numerous platitudes that Obama gave that do not jive with his record, his current stance on the issues, and his stated plans.
I did not buy his speech and, no, I am not buying a commemorative Obama plate either.
...
“The words (oath of office) have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we the people have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears, and true to our founding documents. So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans. That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.”
Our generation does not have the right to claim we are in time of “gathering clouds and raging storms”. We have defeated a dictator in the most powerful Middle Eastern country and have successfully replaced him with a representative democracy that has been embraced by the people. Terrorists who hate America are still out there, but they have been mightily weakened after relentless pursuit by President Bush and our military/intelligence complex. Our economy is in a downturn, but it is not as bad as advertised. Statistically it does not even compare to the poor economy of the late 1970’s. Also not acknowledged are the many modern conveniences that we know consider a right and an entitlement. Personal computers, cell phones, instant messaging and global communications are at the fingertips of the poorest of welfare clients. Economically we are not in a "stormy" environment. On the contrary, we are spoiled.
Obama blames a weakened economy on the greed and irresponsibility of some and our collective failure to make hard choices. This is very vague. Does anyone know who or what he is talking about and what evidence he can offer? The speech only leads one to assume.
The cost of health care is an issue. How much does health care cost the average citizen? Is it worth it? Is our health valuable enough to cause us to spend less on our toys rather than ask the government (i.e., taxpayers) to buy health care for us? What is his plan to change this? Who will pay for it? Will his idea work? We will not learn the answers to those questions from this speech. How does the energy we use threaten our planet? I know the global warming theory and I disagree with it. The Earth has been cooler during the last two years than it has any year since the 1970's. How much money does He plan to sink into this issue? Who knows? Any is too much in my book.
Saying our schools fail too many is a loaded statement. Is he admitting that government run schools are ineffective? How many administrations will we have to live through before we can say that our schools are successful? How much money do we have to pay the education establishment to accomplish this goal? The National Center for Educational Statistics stated that we spent nearly $9300 per pupil in the 2004-2005 school year. This represents a 50 per cent increase in 20 years. Despite this, our schools “still fail too many.” Has anyone considered that the problem may not be with schools? Or, if it is with the schools, has anyone ever thought that maybe we need to change the way schools operate without spending more money? The problem, again, is that one can only assume what he means.
This is political rhetoric meant to lower expectations. If the economy succeeds, Obama becomes a hero. If it remains stagnant or turns downward, it will be blamed on President Bush. That sounds like a no-lose scenario for Mr. Obama. Don’t get me started on how Obama and his liberal colleagues have drifted away from our founding documents. Volumes could be written about that subject.
“On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord. On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.”
This statement irritates me to no end. He is implying that by electing him we have elected the embodiment of hope and purpose. How arrogant! And those who ran against him are the embodiment of fear, conflict, discord, pettiness, false promises, and worn out dogmas. It is distasteful when politicians make these pompous claims during a campaign, but it is a little more understandable in the campaign environment. But can dirty politics and mudslinging be laid to rest at least one day during an inauguration speach? Please.
“We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness. In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted — for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things — some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom. For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life. For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth. For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn. Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.”
It is almost as if a different speechwriter took over the speech at this point. This part was reminiscent of the great words of Lincoln, Kennedy, or Reagan. It is a wonderful description of what has, and does, make America a great country. But again, how will President Obama promote these ideals? That remains to be seen.
“The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act — not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age.”
I am sorry. Our economy does not call for any significant action, at least no more bailouts. President Bush already made that mistake, and it hasn’t helped. More of the same will not help. I thought this was all about change. We do not need to revisit the New Deal, if that is what he is talking about. Excessive spending is part of the problem, not the solution. Our cars run well enough without the sun, wind, and the soil. I am not eager to drive an Obamamobile, powered by a big sail with an ‘O’ on the side. The best changes do not grow out of inauguration speeches. They grow out of necessity and the inventiveness of the American people as they operate in a free market. How much more of our money do they need? Supposedly 600 private jets touched down at Washington’s airport for the inauguration. If we had a crisis, why are his supporters setting new records for consumption of fossil fuels? How does he plan on transforming schools, colleges, and universities? More money? From whom?
“Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage. What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them — that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works — whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. Those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account — to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day — because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.”
Arrogance has returned to the speech. Evidently if you disagree with President Obama, you are automatically labeled a “cynic”. It is not a stale argument to claim that government is too large and too ineffective. The last I checked this was supposedly a government of, by, and for the people. I am glad that he said that programs that do not work should be ended. Maybe I am cynical, but with a Democrat in the White House and a Democrat majority in Congress, I will be very surprised by any cuts in government programs which fail. He already said that public schools have failed too many of our children. Is he going to privatize schools? Who defines failure? How will they be cut? No answers or clues were mentioned in this speech. Will anyone in the media hold him to this promise? I seriously doubt it and I doubt any federal government workers are seriously worried about their program ending.
“And so to all the other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.”
Wow! What a change in policy. Ready to lead? I was under the impression that Obama was against our leadership role in the world. He criticized the lead we took in promoting representative democracy in the Middle East. Based on his campaign rhetoric, I expected one very clear agenda item out of this speech. I expected to hear Obama say, “Effective immediately, I am ordering the immediate withdrawal of all United States troops from Iraq.” This is the expectation he gave us during his campaign against Hillary Clinton, even before the violence was mostly defeated by the troop surge. What is his excuse now for keeping troops in Iraq? He has none.
“Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.”
Principles, justness, example, humility, and restraint. Great words. How does abortion on demand, changing the definition of marriage, and moral filth of the popular culture fit into this template? Obama is firmly on record as supporting the first two and his greatest supporters promote the last one. We are supposed to sit here and believe he is sincere. Obama’s nominee for Treasury Secretary goes four years without paying his taxes. Now, even with this knowledge, Obama is standing by him to head the IRS. Where is the principle, justness, example, humility and restrain in that decision?
I could go on an on. Time does not allow me to rehash all of the numerous platitudes that Obama gave that do not jive with his record, his current stance on the issues, and his stated plans.
I did not buy his speech and, no, I am not buying a commemorative Obama plate either.
...
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Government run health care?
No one is arguing whether people should have health care needs met. Why bother debating whether it is a right? No decent person wants to see people who are sick be ignored and left to die or suffer.
The real issue is which institution will do the best job of delivering those services. Another factor (way too many people now disregard) is what does the Constitution say. Even if we throw the Constitution away (I know---I'm supposed to read between the lines so I can find justification for anything) we still have the question about which institution would do the best job of providing health care services.
Serious problems do indeed exist in all systems. We live in a fallen and imperfect world. My lack of confidence in government's ability to solve these problems is not just based on my experience in Alabama. For every one example of a successful government run program I could give a dozen examples of failures. I have to get ready for work soon, though, and I cannot afford to take a day of leave to start making that list here.
We are giving in to the ideas and principals that we as a country have sacrificed, bled, and died fighting against. America is giving up more personal freedom and personal responsibility every day in exchange for a promise by the government to solve a problem. Oh, and it's not just the Democrats. GW Bush was the one of the worst we ever had to do that. We already have a quasi-government run system. The government part is the least effective part too.
Here's a question: Which large country, similar in size and scope to the US, has a government-run health care system that you all think is better than our current system? Here is another question: What services do you all believe that the government currently does a very good and efficient job providing? It wouldn't take me very long to answer those questions.
Why do people put so much faith, hope, and confidence in an institution with such a poor track record as the government. Last I checked, the approval rating for Congress is in the 20's and the President's isn't much higher. Yet we want them to govern every aspect of our health care?
According to our Founders, our number one "right" is the right to life. The government's job is to protect it. I will give the government of the United States an "F" in protecting the right to life until abortion is at least against the law. We are killing babies hand over fist. Until the government can figure out a way to make that stop, or at least go way down, I have no confidence in the government providing me health care.
The real issue is which institution will do the best job of delivering those services. Another factor (way too many people now disregard) is what does the Constitution say. Even if we throw the Constitution away (I know---I'm supposed to read between the lines so I can find justification for anything) we still have the question about which institution would do the best job of providing health care services.
Serious problems do indeed exist in all systems. We live in a fallen and imperfect world. My lack of confidence in government's ability to solve these problems is not just based on my experience in Alabama. For every one example of a successful government run program I could give a dozen examples of failures. I have to get ready for work soon, though, and I cannot afford to take a day of leave to start making that list here.
We are giving in to the ideas and principals that we as a country have sacrificed, bled, and died fighting against. America is giving up more personal freedom and personal responsibility every day in exchange for a promise by the government to solve a problem. Oh, and it's not just the Democrats. GW Bush was the one of the worst we ever had to do that. We already have a quasi-government run system. The government part is the least effective part too.
Here's a question: Which large country, similar in size and scope to the US, has a government-run health care system that you all think is better than our current system? Here is another question: What services do you all believe that the government currently does a very good and efficient job providing? It wouldn't take me very long to answer those questions.
Why do people put so much faith, hope, and confidence in an institution with such a poor track record as the government. Last I checked, the approval rating for Congress is in the 20's and the President's isn't much higher. Yet we want them to govern every aspect of our health care?
According to our Founders, our number one "right" is the right to life. The government's job is to protect it. I will give the government of the United States an "F" in protecting the right to life until abortion is at least against the law. We are killing babies hand over fist. Until the government can figure out a way to make that stop, or at least go way down, I have no confidence in the government providing me health care.
Monday, October 13, 2008
We have come a long way...
I was driving to my meeting in Montgomery a few weeks ago and happened upon this station by accident. It was a poignant moment for me. As the song was playing I reflected on the struggles this city and this great state have been through relative to civil rights. We have come a long way. And we have a long way to go. But our country needs to remember that civil rights has its real foundation in Biblical truth.
Friday, September 05, 2008
I AM THANKFUL:
FOR THE WIFE WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHTBECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE.
FOR THE HUSBAND WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO,BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.
FOR THE TEENAGER WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHESBECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME, NOT ON THE STREETS.
FOR THE TAXES I PAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED .
FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTYBECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.
FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT.
FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING, WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING, AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME
FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.
FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOTBECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKINGAND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION.
FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILLBECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.
FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH WHO SINGS OFF KEY BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR. FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR. FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD. FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.
FOR THE HUSBAND WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO,BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.
FOR THE TEENAGER WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHESBECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME, NOT ON THE STREETS.
FOR THE TAXES I PAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED .
FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTYBECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.
FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUG BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT.
FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING, WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING, AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME
FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.
FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOTBECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKINGAND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION.
FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILLBECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.
FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH WHO SINGS OFF KEY BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR. FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR. FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD. FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFF IN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.
Friday, July 04, 2008
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Happy Independence Day
Lee Greenwood performed his song, "God Bless the USA" in 1985 at the CMA awards show in Nashville, Tennessee. He won the CMA "Song of the Year" award in 1985.
God Bless The U.S.A.
by Lee Greenwood
If tomorrow all the things were gone,
I'd worked for all my life.
And I had to start again,
with just my children and my wife.
I'd thank my lucky stars,
to be livin here today.
'Cause the flag still stands for freedom,
and they can't take that away.
And I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I wont forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.
And I gladly stand up,
next to you and defend her still today.
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land,
God bless the USA.
From the lakes of Minnesota,
to the hills of Tennessee.
Across the plains of Texas,
From sea to shining sea.
From Detroit down to Houston,
and New York to L.A.
Well there's pride in every American heart,
and its time we stand and say.
That I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I wont forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.
And I gladly stand up,
next to you and defend her still today.
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land,
God bless the USA.
And I'm proud to be and American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I wont forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.
And I gladly stand up,
next to you and defend her still today.
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land,
God bless the USA.
A random thought....
I am fortunate enough to remember being taken to the free movies for "patrol boys" in the fifth grade.
This video captures that memory well.
This video captures that memory well.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
A trip back to 1985...
Part 2:
Part 3
This is the actual play by play call of the end of the Stars' SL Championship victory over the Charlotte Orioles. Rick Davis was the announcer for WFIX Huntsville and WFMH Cullman.
1985 Huntsville Stars 78 - 66
SOUTHERN LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
Southern League baseball came to Huntsville in 1985 with the Stars winning the league championship in their first season. The team had several stars, the first of which was Southern League MVP Jose Canseco. "Jose Parkway" hit .318 with 25 homers and 80 RBI's in just 58 games before being called up to Tacoma and then Oakland. 1B Rob Nelson led the team with 32 homers, still a franchise single season record, and 98 RBI. Stan Javier stole 61 bases and scored 105 runs, Luis Polonia hit 18 triples and scored 82 runs, and Terry Steinbach hit .272 and had 72 RBI.
The pitching staff included Tim Belcher (led the team with 11 wins), Todd Burns, who only made 4 starts but was 3 - 1 with a 1.19 era, Wayne Giddings (49 games, 12 saves), Pete Kendrick (6-4 but with 5 complete games and 2.45 era), Eric Plunk (8-2), Greg Cadaret, and Bill Mooneyham (2-1, 1.98).
But it was Rocky Coyle (.282-5-25) who won the hearts of all Stars fans with his charisma and hustling style of play, and it was Rocky Coyle who hit a solo home run in the 9th inning of the 5th and deciding game of the Southern League championship series, giving the franchise it's first league title.
Roster:
http://www.thebaseballcube.com/roster...
Statistics:
http://www.thebaseballcube.com/statis...
Team page on Baseballcube.com:
http://www.thebaseballcube.com/statis...
I have been a Stars fan since their inception in 1985. My Dad and I hoped Huntsville would get a minor league team throughout my childhood years. When it finally happened, Dad bought us season tickets the first few summers.
The Stars have quite a history, all of which is documented on the excellent "Baseball Cube" website. Anything you want to know about the Stars' history can be found there.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Southbound, headed for a wreck
Recently as I drove north up the interstate I heard on the radio that there was a terrible wreck involving two trucks to my south. The announcer was advising southbound travelers that they should exit and detour to keep from being stuck in traffic. All southbound traffic was halted and being rerouted by law enforcement. As I continued northbound I saw numerous vehicles in the southbound lane. Most of them were unaware that they were just a few miles away from a traffic jam that would change the course of their day. Some of them would likely be stranded for hours. I saw 18-wheelers who were on a strict time schedule. There were probably people going to work, doctor appointments, visiting family, going to the beach, job interviews, classes, and many other things. Many of these people would be late, miss opportunities, lose money, and have disappointments due to the terrible accident that happened a few miles in front of them. That is to say nothing about the impact the accident had on the people involved in it directly.
One thing most, if not all of these folks had in common was that they were clueless. They had no idea that they were going down the “wrong” road. As I drove northward, part of me wanted to pull over and make a sign and hold it up to the people heading south to warn them of the impending problem so that they would turn around and find a better route. I felt so helpless not being able to do anything about it. Then I thought about this as a metaphor about life. As a Bible-believing Christian, I know from God’s Word that there is one any only one road that leads to heaven. That “road” is Jesus Christ. In John 14:6, He said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
The road of life is like an interstate. There are lanes going to heaven and lanes headed toward hell. There are not as many on the road to heaven. Those of us on that road are there by the grace of almighty God. We may get out of our lane, take an exit, or get temporarily stalled on the side of the road. But, fortunately, we are going the right way. Our destination is sure and it will be awesome beyond our wildest imagination.
On the other hand, as we are on the road to heaven, we see many more “cars” heading south. Most of these people do not know what a terrible outcome awaits them. Some know but do not care. Some refuse to believe. Many are good people that are just going the wrong direction. The thing is, those of us that know we are on the right road never should forget that we have a responsibility to inform as many people as we can about the road conditions and show them the right way to go. To me this is one of the most difficult parts of being a Christian.
In what is commonly known as “The Great Commission”, Jesus said to His Disciples in Matthew 28, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Those of us heading north are supposed to proclaim and teach others about how to head “north” on life’s highway. We see people whom we know do not believe in Christ. We are unsure about where many others we know may stand. But if we know they are on the road to hell, or even think that they might be, is it not our duty and obligation to find ways of letting them know so that they will have an opportunity to avoid such peril? Of course it is. Logic dictates that but even more importantly Christ commands it.
I must confess I often feel like a failure at doing my part to fulfill the Great Commission. I have a tendency to be shy. I have a tendency to keep some matters private. I don’t like to offend people by telling them they are headed down the wrong road. I like to avoid confrontation and I try not to be too quick to judge. I am not creative in the way I communicate. I am not always as “full of the Holy Spirit” as I should be nor am I motivated by compassion and concern for the lost as I should be. Having said that, I have on many occasions and in many ways shared the “Good News” of salvation through Christ with others. I have usually and mostly lived a life reflective of what God has done. I suppose the fact that I am concerned enough to write this post indicates that I struggle with this and would like everyone to know God’s Way. I often pray for people, but not as often as I should.
One thing I do fairly often is think back to how some special people in my life saw me going south about 22 years ago. They gave me their unsolicited, but desperately needed time, energy, and attention. They listened to my arguments. They were patient and gave me the time and space to make my own decision. They framed the question so well that I knew the choice that I faced; that we all face. They suggested the place to go for the answer; the Holy Bible. God did the rest! I am very thankful they allowed themselves to be used in that way for my eternal benefit.
There are many reasons we should show people how to head north. Compassion, gratefulness, and the fact that God commands it all come to mind. In Mark 8:36, Jesus asked, “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” Doesn’t that sum it all up? We do so many things and are involved in so many activities. We read, we watch TV, we entertain ourselves. We spend our lives working, playing, and even helping other people. None of these things are necessarily evil or bad. But how much time and energy do we spend trying to help people turn around and head north? I can only answer for myself. I confess that I do not do it nearly enough.
One thing most, if not all of these folks had in common was that they were clueless. They had no idea that they were going down the “wrong” road. As I drove northward, part of me wanted to pull over and make a sign and hold it up to the people heading south to warn them of the impending problem so that they would turn around and find a better route. I felt so helpless not being able to do anything about it. Then I thought about this as a metaphor about life. As a Bible-believing Christian, I know from God’s Word that there is one any only one road that leads to heaven. That “road” is Jesus Christ. In John 14:6, He said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
The road of life is like an interstate. There are lanes going to heaven and lanes headed toward hell. There are not as many on the road to heaven. Those of us on that road are there by the grace of almighty God. We may get out of our lane, take an exit, or get temporarily stalled on the side of the road. But, fortunately, we are going the right way. Our destination is sure and it will be awesome beyond our wildest imagination.
On the other hand, as we are on the road to heaven, we see many more “cars” heading south. Most of these people do not know what a terrible outcome awaits them. Some know but do not care. Some refuse to believe. Many are good people that are just going the wrong direction. The thing is, those of us that know we are on the right road never should forget that we have a responsibility to inform as many people as we can about the road conditions and show them the right way to go. To me this is one of the most difficult parts of being a Christian.
In what is commonly known as “The Great Commission”, Jesus said to His Disciples in Matthew 28, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Those of us heading north are supposed to proclaim and teach others about how to head “north” on life’s highway. We see people whom we know do not believe in Christ. We are unsure about where many others we know may stand. But if we know they are on the road to hell, or even think that they might be, is it not our duty and obligation to find ways of letting them know so that they will have an opportunity to avoid such peril? Of course it is. Logic dictates that but even more importantly Christ commands it.
I must confess I often feel like a failure at doing my part to fulfill the Great Commission. I have a tendency to be shy. I have a tendency to keep some matters private. I don’t like to offend people by telling them they are headed down the wrong road. I like to avoid confrontation and I try not to be too quick to judge. I am not creative in the way I communicate. I am not always as “full of the Holy Spirit” as I should be nor am I motivated by compassion and concern for the lost as I should be. Having said that, I have on many occasions and in many ways shared the “Good News” of salvation through Christ with others. I have usually and mostly lived a life reflective of what God has done. I suppose the fact that I am concerned enough to write this post indicates that I struggle with this and would like everyone to know God’s Way. I often pray for people, but not as often as I should.
One thing I do fairly often is think back to how some special people in my life saw me going south about 22 years ago. They gave me their unsolicited, but desperately needed time, energy, and attention. They listened to my arguments. They were patient and gave me the time and space to make my own decision. They framed the question so well that I knew the choice that I faced; that we all face. They suggested the place to go for the answer; the Holy Bible. God did the rest! I am very thankful they allowed themselves to be used in that way for my eternal benefit.
There are many reasons we should show people how to head north. Compassion, gratefulness, and the fact that God commands it all come to mind. In Mark 8:36, Jesus asked, “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” Doesn’t that sum it all up? We do so many things and are involved in so many activities. We read, we watch TV, we entertain ourselves. We spend our lives working, playing, and even helping other people. None of these things are necessarily evil or bad. But how much time and energy do we spend trying to help people turn around and head north? I can only answer for myself. I confess that I do not do it nearly enough.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Fishing at Smith Lake for Spring Break
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
It was a beautiful weather day at Smith Lake Thursday for fishing. No, it was not a good day for actually catching fish. We were there for 9 or 10 hours and the fish caught more of us than we caught of them. I say that because Matt gave us all a big scare when he leaned into the water to get his hook untangled and he fell into the water. The boys said the never saw me run so fast. Another gentleman was closer and pulled him out. Prior to that David severely bruised one of his toes by walking around barefoot on the dock and hitting it on a metal tie back.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Do you hate Hillary Clinton?
My good friend Sharp recently mentioned an article in Christianity Today entitled, "Hating Hillary". In the editorial, the author equates jokes, marketing, and satire with personal hate. I think it is possible as a Christian to love someone, especially a public figure, while at the same time making fun of their politics or persona. God has called us to love our enemies, not to like them.
Franky, in some ways, she is my enemy. She is a politician who actively promotes things that are adverse and offensive to my world view as a Christian. This is not only true on economic issues, upon which many Christians can have honest disagreement. It is mainly true on social issues. God is not a Republican, but I believe with my whole heart that He is pro life. I also do not believe that He is for gay "marriage" either. Everything I have read in the Bible tells me this is so. I could go into many more issues.
This article accuses some Christians of using Hillary's status as an "enemy" in order to create "a feeling of mutuality among those with whom we share dislike. The factions created around enemies may even bear a far-off resemblance to true community." I disagree strongly. I know of no such organization, formal or informal. I think we already have communities of evangelicals, called churches, whose membership is usually fairly like-minded in their world views. Senator Clinton came along later, spouting views that are diametrically opposed to those views.
The article goes on to say that, "vitriolic language directed at political figures does not, to use the Pauline metaphor, attract others with 'the aroma of Christ.'" Of course not! It is not designed to do that. Does cheering at a football game, singing at a concert, or laughing at a play attract others to Christ? Probably not, but I think that activity is permissible!
I believe God calls our politicians to be honest, especially those who claim to be Christian. I believe He calls them to take a strong stand for eternal moral truths that are contained in the Bible. I believe that He expects politicians to look at their office as an opportunity to serve, not as a grab for personal power. Everything I have seen, heard, and read tells me that Hillary Clinton does not even attempt to meet these high standards. No one can be perfect, but I at least want a President that understands the importance of these things and makes a valiant attempt to live up to these ideals.
I don't hate Senator Clinton. I just hate what she represents. And I hate the way she represents it. I think most evangelicals hate those things, but not her as a human being. I think the vast majority can make that distinction. Hating sin and hating her ideas does not equate to hating her.
I hate the fact that she lied about her trip to Bosnia. She said it proves she is "human." I say it is yet another in a mile long string of lies. But way more than that I hate the way she "lies" about how her ideas will help this country. She has not shown how socialized medicine will work here. She makes outlandish claims about crises that we are not having. If one does not agree with her socialist/liberal agenda, she seems to treat them like an ignorant backwoods snake handler.
I hate the fact that she sends her daughter out to campaign and work for her and then whine that she is asked tough questions. Tuesday Chelsea Clinton was asked whether her mother's credibility had been hurt during the Monica Lewinsky scandal. She replied, "I do not think that is any of your business." I think that it is. I think questions about a candidate's credibility are very much our business. They are wanting us to "hire" them, right? If Chelsea can't handle the heat, she should stay out of the kitchen. I would. To me, if you want to lead the free world, or campaign for someone who does, then put up with it or shut up.
Most of all, I hate her support for abortion on demand. Is it all right as a Christian to hate abortion, lack of personal responsibility in leaders, condescension, socialism, liberalism, and lying? Sure it is! These are moral issues, ideas and character traits, not people.
Finally, we are told in this article that the most courageous thing we could do this year is love Hillary. I already do that, and it takes little or no courage. I want Senator Clinton to know Christ as her Savior and Lord. I want her to be blessed personally and professionally as she does that.
The most courageous thing we could do as Christians this election season is take a firm stand for eternal moral truths. We should write about them, talk about them, and live them out. We should even do it if (in so doing) we are branded as haters by others. That is courage!
Franky, in some ways, she is my enemy. She is a politician who actively promotes things that are adverse and offensive to my world view as a Christian. This is not only true on economic issues, upon which many Christians can have honest disagreement. It is mainly true on social issues. God is not a Republican, but I believe with my whole heart that He is pro life. I also do not believe that He is for gay "marriage" either. Everything I have read in the Bible tells me this is so. I could go into many more issues.
This article accuses some Christians of using Hillary's status as an "enemy" in order to create "a feeling of mutuality among those with whom we share dislike. The factions created around enemies may even bear a far-off resemblance to true community." I disagree strongly. I know of no such organization, formal or informal. I think we already have communities of evangelicals, called churches, whose membership is usually fairly like-minded in their world views. Senator Clinton came along later, spouting views that are diametrically opposed to those views.
The article goes on to say that, "vitriolic language directed at political figures does not, to use the Pauline metaphor, attract others with 'the aroma of Christ.'" Of course not! It is not designed to do that. Does cheering at a football game, singing at a concert, or laughing at a play attract others to Christ? Probably not, but I think that activity is permissible!
I believe God calls our politicians to be honest, especially those who claim to be Christian. I believe He calls them to take a strong stand for eternal moral truths that are contained in the Bible. I believe that He expects politicians to look at their office as an opportunity to serve, not as a grab for personal power. Everything I have seen, heard, and read tells me that Hillary Clinton does not even attempt to meet these high standards. No one can be perfect, but I at least want a President that understands the importance of these things and makes a valiant attempt to live up to these ideals.
I don't hate Senator Clinton. I just hate what she represents. And I hate the way she represents it. I think most evangelicals hate those things, but not her as a human being. I think the vast majority can make that distinction. Hating sin and hating her ideas does not equate to hating her.
I hate the fact that she lied about her trip to Bosnia. She said it proves she is "human." I say it is yet another in a mile long string of lies. But way more than that I hate the way she "lies" about how her ideas will help this country. She has not shown how socialized medicine will work here. She makes outlandish claims about crises that we are not having. If one does not agree with her socialist/liberal agenda, she seems to treat them like an ignorant backwoods snake handler.
I hate the fact that she sends her daughter out to campaign and work for her and then whine that she is asked tough questions. Tuesday Chelsea Clinton was asked whether her mother's credibility had been hurt during the Monica Lewinsky scandal. She replied, "I do not think that is any of your business." I think that it is. I think questions about a candidate's credibility are very much our business. They are wanting us to "hire" them, right? If Chelsea can't handle the heat, she should stay out of the kitchen. I would. To me, if you want to lead the free world, or campaign for someone who does, then put up with it or shut up.
Most of all, I hate her support for abortion on demand. Is it all right as a Christian to hate abortion, lack of personal responsibility in leaders, condescension, socialism, liberalism, and lying? Sure it is! These are moral issues, ideas and character traits, not people.
Finally, we are told in this article that the most courageous thing we could do this year is love Hillary. I already do that, and it takes little or no courage. I want Senator Clinton to know Christ as her Savior and Lord. I want her to be blessed personally and professionally as she does that.
The most courageous thing we could do as Christians this election season is take a firm stand for eternal moral truths. We should write about them, talk about them, and live them out. We should even do it if (in so doing) we are branded as haters by others. That is courage!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Sad news
I just got the call from David. "Mamaw" passed away this morning at 6:30.
I say "sad". I know she is not sad now! It's just a selfish sadness for those of us she loves.
Thanks, Lord, for letting me say goodbye, for now.
Obituary From the Cullmann Times:
Funeral services for Evelyn Ruth McDonald, 91, of Cullman will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 25, 2008, at Moss-Service Funeral Home Chapel, with interment in Bethlehem Cemetery. Officiants will be the grandsons of Mrs. McDonald.
Moss-Service Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mrs. McDonald passed away on Sunday, March 23, at Cullman Regional Medical Center. She was born on Sept. 4, 1916, in Cullman County to George and Alta Grimmett.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Parker McDonald; a son, Jerry McDonald; three brothers, Arnold, Bill and Don Grimmett; and a sister, Helen Dickerson.
Survivors include four daughters, Mary Ruth (Henry) Knight of Birmingham, Janice (Larry) Gambrill of Cullman and Paula (Ben) Knighten, both of Cullman, and Gail (Frankie) Wilkins of Helicon; a daughter-in-law, Celeta McDonald of Walker County; two brothers, G.W. (Faye) Grimmett of Blount County and Windell Grimmett of Cullman; three sisters, Rosalee Lynn of Pell City, Allene (Odis) Ponder of Cold Springs and Carmen Davidson of Birmingham; 16 grandchildren, Tony (Anita) Knight of Tuscaloosa, Terry (Pam) Knight, Pam (Barry) Todd, Sandra (Curtis) Garrison, Larry Gambrill Jr., all of Birmingham, Laura Oliver of Vinemont, Tim (Lori) Turney of Jacksonville, Fla., Angela Carroll of Kennesaw, Ga., Gina (Jeff) Bishop and Bobby Childers Jr., both of Dodge City,Teresa (Ricky) Bartlett and Lisa Childers, both of Cullman, Kim (Ronnie) Overton of Crane Hill, Darron McDonald of Wilsonville, Brent (Dana) McDonald and Ben (Lori) McDonald, both of Empire; four stepgrandchildren, Ann Carter of Florida, Chris Wilkins of Birmingham, Ginger (Norman) Bacate of Good Hope and Angela (Michael) Day of Holly Pond; and 27 great-grandchildren.
Visitation was Monday.
I say "sad". I know she is not sad now! It's just a selfish sadness for those of us she loves.
Thanks, Lord, for letting me say goodbye, for now.
Obituary From the Cullmann Times:
Funeral services for Evelyn Ruth McDonald, 91, of Cullman will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 25, 2008, at Moss-Service Funeral Home Chapel, with interment in Bethlehem Cemetery. Officiants will be the grandsons of Mrs. McDonald.
Moss-Service Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mrs. McDonald passed away on Sunday, March 23, at Cullman Regional Medical Center. She was born on Sept. 4, 1916, in Cullman County to George and Alta Grimmett.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Parker McDonald; a son, Jerry McDonald; three brothers, Arnold, Bill and Don Grimmett; and a sister, Helen Dickerson.
Survivors include four daughters, Mary Ruth (Henry) Knight of Birmingham, Janice (Larry) Gambrill of Cullman and Paula (Ben) Knighten, both of Cullman, and Gail (Frankie) Wilkins of Helicon; a daughter-in-law, Celeta McDonald of Walker County; two brothers, G.W. (Faye) Grimmett of Blount County and Windell Grimmett of Cullman; three sisters, Rosalee Lynn of Pell City, Allene (Odis) Ponder of Cold Springs and Carmen Davidson of Birmingham; 16 grandchildren, Tony (Anita) Knight of Tuscaloosa, Terry (Pam) Knight, Pam (Barry) Todd, Sandra (Curtis) Garrison, Larry Gambrill Jr., all of Birmingham, Laura Oliver of Vinemont, Tim (Lori) Turney of Jacksonville, Fla., Angela Carroll of Kennesaw, Ga., Gina (Jeff) Bishop and Bobby Childers Jr., both of Dodge City,Teresa (Ricky) Bartlett and Lisa Childers, both of Cullman, Kim (Ronnie) Overton of Crane Hill, Darron McDonald of Wilsonville, Brent (Dana) McDonald and Ben (Lori) McDonald, both of Empire; four stepgrandchildren, Ann Carter of Florida, Chris Wilkins of Birmingham, Ginger (Norman) Bacate of Good Hope and Angela (Michael) Day of Holly Pond; and 27 great-grandchildren.
Visitation was Monday.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
My little tribute to a great lady
The sky I wish Mamaw could have enjoyed at 6:45 p.m. tonight, just before I saw her for the last time....
There is a precious lady that tonight needs your prayers. She is one of my favorite people in the world, and has been ever since I first met her 20 years ago. Evelyn McDonald is the grandmother of my ex-wife. She is 91 and tonight she is in the hospital with a severe illness that is attacking her body, but not her precious spirit.
Do you believe in unconditional love? Do you believe that a life best-lived is the life that is centered around meeting the needs of others, rather than self? Do you believe in being positive when everything and everyone else around you is negative? Can a person do that while maintaining a healthy sense of humor? Do you believe that a human, other than Jesus Himself, can exemplify these characteristics? I do. I have seen it lived out beautifully in the life of Evelyn McDonald.
I am hesitant to even write for publication some of the things that she put up with. I don't like saying negative things about people. One of the things that she lived through, though, was the death of her only son. He was driving home from work after working way too long, and he fell asleep at the wheel. This happened in the early 1970's. I think she still grieves his passing. Her husband, when they were in their 70's, was unfaithful. Some would have told her to let him go. She continued to believe in him and hold out for him. She refused to completely reject the love of her life. When he decided to get his life right, guess who was there for him in his time of need? Guess who took care of him when he was on his deathbed? You guessed it!
If there was a family member or friend down on their luck, or just in need of a smile, laugh, company, or an encouraging word, where did they go? Where did people go to laugh, sing, and feel "at home"? That would be the home of Evelyn McDonald.
How do you respond when you learn that your granddaughter is getting divorced from a man that you love and respect? What if he is accused of heinous things that are not even true? I don't know what Evelyn thought, but I know one thing. She treated me with as much love as ever before. She never blamed anyone. She just loved and accepted people, no matter what. What is wrong with that? She didn't even seem to waste her time getting to the bottom of things or getting into who was right and who was wrong. She seemed to have the sense that everyone needed to be loved and treated with as much respect as possible. And she does love!
Tonight I went back. I went to visit Evelyn in the hospital. She has been in and out of consciousness. She can barely speak. She seems to have a hard time recognizing everyone and what is going on around her. She keeps saying, "OK" over and over, as if she is talking to someone and doing something for them. That is not surprising! That was her lifestyle: giving.
The first time I was by her bedside tonight, she looked into my eyes and seemed to light up with recognition, but didn't say anything. She just reached for my hand. I held her hand for a while and told her that I love her. There were a lot of people who came to visit her. I stepped out of the room for a little while and spent some time with my sons David and Matt. Joe was spending the night at his friend's house. David stayed up all night with his mom last night at the hospital. He was supportive and has turned into a young man. I was proud of him. Both he and Matt drank vanilla jungle coffee. I digress.
I felt strongly led to go visit Evelyn one more time. Almost as soon as I came in the room, she saw me. She said, "Mike!" loud and clear. I immediately went to her side, hugged her, told her I loved her, and said, "hang in there". I didn't know what to say other than I wanted her to hear how much I love and respect her. She pulled her oxygen mask off and my ex-wife's sister said, "She wants to kiss you!" I put my cheek up to her so she could and I kissed her back on the cheek and forehead. I hugged her.
I am so glad I went to see her! I am not good at going to hospitals. I am like a fish out of water. This was not easy for me to do at first, but I felt an overwhelming urging from the Lord in my heart that gave me an unusual desire to do it.
Before I left I prayed and prayed. I wanted to be a special blessing to her. I realized I had a unique opportunity. Not because there is anything particularly special about me. I just realized that few people have the ex husband of one of their grandchildren come and visit them like that to tell them they love them. Usually there are a host of reasons why that would not happen. I even struggled with that a little bit. I wondered who would be there and what would they think of me based on the things they have been told. I decided my love and respect for this great lady trumped anythings else.
We all have a tendency to think that great people are famous people. There is no denying that many great people become famous because of their greatness. Most great people don't become famous. One of the greatest is Evelyn McDonald.
茉莉花
I was part of a group who sang "Mo Li Hua" or "Jasmine Flowers" and "Amazing Grace" at the Chinese New Year Festival at the University of Alabama in February 1992.
This is what it was like to be in the audience.....
This is what it was like to be in the audience.....
Friday, March 14, 2008
What a loser!
I will admit I have been concerned about Barack Hussein Obama. Why does he hate people to refer to his middle name, anyway? But I really didn't know exactly what he believed until yesterday, other than the fact that he has the most liberal voting record in Congress. I also know he is the least experienced candidate for President in either party.
Obama is a slick speaker, talking about "hope" "change" and various other nebulous, feel-goodisms. He has fooled so many people that Republicans I know say he is not as liberal as Hillary. Check his voting record!
People have spread lies saying that he was a Muslim, which were easily debunked. Now we all know what he believes. His 'pastor' for the last 20 years, Jeremiah Wright, gave him the title for his book and performed his marriage ceremony. Obama said that his church is not controversial and defended his so called "social gospel".
This is pure, unadulterated hatred. There is nothing at all in this message that resembles my blessed savior, Jesus Christ, who told us to beware of false teachers. Everyone who says "Lord, Lord" will not enter the gates of heaven.
I wouldn't vote for Obama for anything, except to say if you don't love this country, you are free to leave it! His pastor is a loser and since Obama supported him for 20 years until he retired, Obama is guilty by association. I am embarassed that my state voted for this clown!
This is some of the most vocal opinionated stuff that I have ever written on this blog, but don't take my word for it, listen and decide for yourself!
Obama is a slick speaker, talking about "hope" "change" and various other nebulous, feel-goodisms. He has fooled so many people that Republicans I know say he is not as liberal as Hillary. Check his voting record!
People have spread lies saying that he was a Muslim, which were easily debunked. Now we all know what he believes. His 'pastor' for the last 20 years, Jeremiah Wright, gave him the title for his book and performed his marriage ceremony. Obama said that his church is not controversial and defended his so called "social gospel".
This is pure, unadulterated hatred. There is nothing at all in this message that resembles my blessed savior, Jesus Christ, who told us to beware of false teachers. Everyone who says "Lord, Lord" will not enter the gates of heaven.
I wouldn't vote for Obama for anything, except to say if you don't love this country, you are free to leave it! His pastor is a loser and since Obama supported him for 20 years until he retired, Obama is guilty by association. I am embarassed that my state voted for this clown!
This is some of the most vocal opinionated stuff that I have ever written on this blog, but don't take my word for it, listen and decide for yourself!
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