Sitting in the quiet of my house with a dried-up Christmas tree standing tall in the corner, sipping new Christmas flavored coffee, tempted to eat the remainder of a Christmas cookie left alone in a festive Christmas tin, and looking at the new software program poised on the computer desk that resists being installed in an easy and cooperative manner--I find myself reflecting on the holiday.
It is difficult to believe it is that time of year again. Where has the year gone? I know I say this every year...but this time, I really mean it...where did this last year go? How can it be 2007 already? Weren't we just preparing for the impending doom and chaos of Y2K? Yikes! I know time flies when you're having fun...but I've concluded that time flies even when you're not having fun. In fact, what you're doing has nothing to do with the rate at which it flies...it just does.
"Time" is an element that seems to bother me more and more as I grow older. It becomes further out of reach. The rate at which my children grow-up seems to speed up; The rate at which my outer self changes accelerates; the rate at which technology like i-pods, cell phones and digital imagery morphs is mind-boggling. Even the joys and triumphs of the year seem quickly eclipsed by the next trial or tragedy. Like my outdated computer operating system, I feel that my operating system is slow, and I can't quite process things at the speed that is required in order to keep up with life and the rate at which it seems to propel us forward. I want to savor moments, like Christmas celebrations, yet when I go to the grocery store the day after Christmas, I'm confronted with Valentine's Day candy!
This past Christmas season, determined to wrangle this time beast and hold onto the precious moments of the holiday, I tried something new. I began by really allowing Christ to be a part of the season. Elementary, I know. (Some of us are slow...remember?) What I mean by this is that I surrendered the season to Him. With my Thanksgiving lesson still recent enough to recall, I was determined to surrender and be willing to give up whatever "traditions", plans, activities, and so on--those things that in my mind "make" it a 'great Christmas'--and instead allow the Lord of my life to orchestrate the season. Some of you may be thinking, "so what's the big deal?"
For many of us the weight of creating a memorable holiday is a constant pressure (I especially feel this being a mother); an ever-present mental "to-do" list that we wear as a holiday accessory, checking off each item as it is completed. Add to that the pressure of making sure all the gifts "come out even" for the kids--in number and value--well, it can be exhausting! Each year I try to shorten my list, but I have as yet to escape it. However, this year, I allowed the Lord to make my "to-do" list. It occurred to me that perhaps all those list items that I think are important and crucial to a fulfilling, enduring holiday reminiscence really aren't all that necessary? This is what His list looked like:
1. Make only two batches of cookies, instead of the entire holiday cookie book.
I polled the family on their top picks. We still made the cut-out cookies, but it was much easier this year as we spread the process out over a few days; 1 day to chill the dough, 1 day to cut them out and bake them and still another day to decorate. By the third day and at the end of decorating, we began "commando icing" which translates into slapping on icing in a fashion Picasso would condone. What mattered most was that we were all having fun and laughing.
2. Say "no"...and this time, really mean it.
Often what I want to do and what I can do are different because of time or availability restraints. I'm working at being more practical about these things, and learning that more often than not the opportunity will come along again or in some cases, something better will present itself. The Lord is teaching me to not stress about these convergences, but trust Him in them. (I still need lots of practice however!)
This past Christmas season, creative leadership at church requested submissions of a brief (100 words) essay from members who would like to share significant ways that God has moved in their lives. My first response was "Great! I want to do that for sure. God has been so present, working and teaching..this should be easy!" Well, after multiple beginnings, and several re-writes, I had a real sense that I wasn't "supposed" to write anything, but rather I should say "no" to this opportunity. Why was it that something so full in my heart kept coming up empty on paper? It isn't as if anything I had to share was profound or Pulitzer-worthy, but it still seemed like a "good" thing to be involved in. I had to really surrender this one to Him. I don't "get it"...but I'm okay with it. (As a side note, it was a blessing being at the Christmas Eve service and having others share their stories of how God broke into their world. I'm so glad that others told their stories, and look forward to reading more.)
3. Limit the buying. Give other kinds of gifts.
My kids love getting together with their cousins for Christmas and traditionally, we do this later in the day with my side of the family on Christmas day. However, this year, because of other family plans, we all celebrated together on the 23rd. It was such a fun-filled day. My oldest sister gave the gift of planning and executing the day. Acknowledging that each family was wanting to cut down on the gift-buying, the day was focused around performing a holiday program for my mom, Grandma BK, as our gift to her. All 12 of the Grandkids participated. Five of the boys practiced and performed a live band number complete with guitars and drums while my brother, Uncle Rich, sang. My husband Ron sang "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas" while my niece Amy interpreted in sign language (she is nationally certified as an interpreter). Then there were two other musical parodies the Grandkids performed which included choreography and singing.
We had a "white elephant" gift exchange with the adults--limit $5.00-- and the kids exchanged names, but with the focus off of buying and on giving ourselves, a whole new realm was opened up--especially for the kids. What a wonderfully full day that was. Everyone had such a great time.
4. And finally, focus on the presence of one another, not presents.
We kicked off Christmas day by attending a Christmas Eve service the night before. The service was warm and personal. I really thought it was an exceptional night. Usually reluctant to attend, the kids each commented on how good it was...and of course...holding lit candles is always a plus.
Christmas day we were home all day with nowhere to go. We were pajama-clad the entire day. The pile of presents under the tree was smaller than in previous years, but that is largely due to the fact that as the kids are getting older, their gift choices are getting more expensive yet smaller in size! However, I think they were just as excited over getting new socks as they were their one "big" gift. One of my treasured gifts was given to me by my oldest son. Unsolicited, he came up behind me while I was fixing dinner, hugged me and kissed me on the cheek and then walked away.
We have all marvelled at what an exceptional Christmas this was; not exhausting, not pressure-filled, not stressful at trying to fill expectations that are never satisfied, but just simplified and re-focused. It truly was a blessed Christmas and one I am still savoring. Time seemed to slow down this Christmas and for that I'm thankful.
I have lots of ponderings to share about the New Year...but I won't rush... there's plenty of time to do that.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Holiday Treats
I thought I would share a couple of God's "holiday treats" we've tasted during this Christmas season.
The sweetness of prayer
This is "peak" season for my husband, a busy UPS guy. It is not uncommon for thankful "regular" customers to give him small gifts of homemade goodies or gift certificates to show their appreciation of his faithful service throughout the past year. This year has been no exception. This last week he brought home a card given to him from the Vietnamese nuns he sees frequently while delivering their communion supplies. He opened the card and read, "You and your dear ones are remembered daily in the prayers and works of the community." I was so touched by this sincere gift of prayer. What a blessing!
Senses seasoned with God's Power
Our local high school presented their annual holiday concert on Thursday night. Yep, you're thinking correctly...this was during the early hours of an intense wind storm that swept through the area. Shortly after the concert began, the power went out; the sound system went dead, main stage and auditorium lighting went black as emergency lights simultaneously came on. The decision was made by the principal and choir director to continue with the concert. The audience was in full agreement. Several different ensembles sang in dim light, reading music with the aide from cell phone lighting; pianists played as page-turners doubled as flashlight-holders.
The main choir performance was saved for the end of the concert. This is the 78 voice choir that most typically sings a capella. My son is a member of this group. As they entered from the back of the auditorium, the women began singing a South African freedom song. The room was filled with wonderful sensations of harmony, a percussive beat, and words that sang out, "We are marching to the arms of God." As these words were song, the auditorium shook with a the impact of a large wind gust. It was quite poetic. The song segued into a Nigerian Christmas song, "Betelchemu" (Bethlehem) which the young men began singing. When interpreted, the words say, -I'm so glad I have a loving father I can trust' (paraphrased). Again, but more intense and prolonged, came another blast of wind that shook the building, as if to emphasize the words being sung. I was keenly aware that God was participating, "singing" right along with the choir.
The wind seemed to die down and the choir continued singing their program. Their final selection was "Dona Nobis Pacem" or (if I understand this correctly) is "Grant us Peace." Again, the choir moved from the risers and encircled the audience. As they sang this beautiful, soothing, Latin round, the room was filled with a hush. A low, yet intensifying, rumble began. It crescendo'd to a burst of wind that again shook the rafters and eaves of the school. The final note was sung. The wind stopped. Peace.
May your senses be filled with the aroma and sweetness of God's presence. Merry Christmas!
The sweetness of prayer
This is "peak" season for my husband, a busy UPS guy. It is not uncommon for thankful "regular" customers to give him small gifts of homemade goodies or gift certificates to show their appreciation of his faithful service throughout the past year. This year has been no exception. This last week he brought home a card given to him from the Vietnamese nuns he sees frequently while delivering their communion supplies. He opened the card and read, "You and your dear ones are remembered daily in the prayers and works of the community." I was so touched by this sincere gift of prayer. What a blessing!
Senses seasoned with God's Power
Our local high school presented their annual holiday concert on Thursday night. Yep, you're thinking correctly...this was during the early hours of an intense wind storm that swept through the area. Shortly after the concert began, the power went out; the sound system went dead, main stage and auditorium lighting went black as emergency lights simultaneously came on. The decision was made by the principal and choir director to continue with the concert. The audience was in full agreement. Several different ensembles sang in dim light, reading music with the aide from cell phone lighting; pianists played as page-turners doubled as flashlight-holders.
The main choir performance was saved for the end of the concert. This is the 78 voice choir that most typically sings a capella. My son is a member of this group. As they entered from the back of the auditorium, the women began singing a South African freedom song. The room was filled with wonderful sensations of harmony, a percussive beat, and words that sang out, "We are marching to the arms of God." As these words were song, the auditorium shook with a the impact of a large wind gust. It was quite poetic. The song segued into a Nigerian Christmas song, "Betelchemu" (Bethlehem) which the young men began singing. When interpreted, the words say, -I'm so glad I have a loving father I can trust' (paraphrased). Again, but more intense and prolonged, came another blast of wind that shook the building, as if to emphasize the words being sung. I was keenly aware that God was participating, "singing" right along with the choir.
The wind seemed to die down and the choir continued singing their program. Their final selection was "Dona Nobis Pacem" or (if I understand this correctly) is "Grant us Peace." Again, the choir moved from the risers and encircled the audience. As they sang this beautiful, soothing, Latin round, the room was filled with a hush. A low, yet intensifying, rumble began. It crescendo'd to a burst of wind that again shook the rafters and eaves of the school. The final note was sung. The wind stopped. Peace.
May your senses be filled with the aroma and sweetness of God's presence. Merry Christmas!
Saturday, December 09, 2006
All You Need Is Love
With teenagers abounding in our household (in April when our youngest turns 13, we will officially have 4 teens, ranging in age from 13 to 18!) there is no shortage of drama as it relates to relationships, either with the opposite sex, or in friendships. It is a continual "ride" comparable to a them park attraction, navigating through a maze of twists and turns and unexpected highs and lows.
Having both boys and girls, it has been a course in human development as we discuss their relationships. My sons will talk about their love lives, or friendships, but not give a play-by-play like the girls are prone to. The male of the species are much more pragmatic in their approach; "Well, this is how it is....", "Girls are so confusing!" My daughters convey every detail, every nuance; " He said...., and then she said...., which made me mad because she didn't have to say it with such a nasty tone in her voice like she thought she was 'all that'...." Discussions can be quite exhausting at times.
As a parent I feel such a sense of responsibility to guide them to a true understanding of what "love" is, both in friendships and those special relationships. We've had many talks about what God says real love is and what the world says love is. (I guess you could say this is where I'm encouraging my children to be counter-cultural. ) I want to be wise in giving them any kind of advice, wanting to be based in truth of scripture and not worldly wisdom. I want to teach them--show them--what "real" love looks like when it is "fleshed-out". But, wow...how does one do that??
The world says love is based on emotion, but scripture teaches it is based on giving, action, even sacrifice:
Never mind being a foreign concept to my teenagers...this is a difficult concept for me to grasp! What does this really mean? How do I really do this in everyday life? How do I "love" the gas station attendant as he pumps my gas? How do I "love" the "sand paper people" in my life (those people that irritate me beyond belief but God has allowed them in my life to smooth out my rough edges)? When I was a young mother, how could I have loved my "neighbor" when I was exhausted from caring for small children, and didn't have resources like time or money (or energy) to give to someone else?
These are the thoughts that plague me. I battle the conflict between wanting to be an obedient, authentic servant, being real in my love for others; and yet not fall into a snare of self-condemnation and guilt that comes from fear that I'm not measuring up or meeting some invisible love-your-neighbor-daily-quotient-meter. "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." (1 JOHN 4:18) Hmmm. Lots to chew on.
What I'm learning is that there really isn't a "right" way--or more accurately, only one way to love others. (Okay, maybe I'm dull headed--many of you probably already have this figured out!) Instead of giving us one way to show love to others, God in His Word (and wisdom) gives a multitude of examples, leaving the field wide open: God gave his son; Christ died for us; Paul gave his life writing and teaching out of deep love 'for all the saints'; church members cared for the widows and orphans; others provided for the poor; and so on. Love is multi-faceted just like God.
When I consider the words, "God is love", I am compelled to look at him and examine him. Who is He? What is His character? It seems my ability to love others is proportionate to how well I know Him. The deeper my relationship goes with the Lord and the more intimately I know Him, the deeper and more intimately (I'm not talking romantically here) I can love others; And, I don't have to worry or "fear" about not measuring up or meeting a love-quotient because loving is a natural by-product of the relationship with God. God's Holy Spirit living inside of me guides me and shows me how to love others--It may be a word of encouragement, or an act of service, or it may mean praying in an intercessory manner--whatever is needed for that moment. My responsibility is to be "tuned in" and be willing to be obedient to the Spirit's direction. Again, I love the simplicity and freedom of following the Lord.
As we continue to travel this wild and wacky road through teenage heart-ache, I'm so thankful I can point each of them toward a love that never disappoints and never fails. I'm thankful for the example of how God loves us and how we can love others--without all the drama!
Having both boys and girls, it has been a course in human development as we discuss their relationships. My sons will talk about their love lives, or friendships, but not give a play-by-play like the girls are prone to. The male of the species are much more pragmatic in their approach; "Well, this is how it is....", "Girls are so confusing!" My daughters convey every detail, every nuance; " He said...., and then she said...., which made me mad because she didn't have to say it with such a nasty tone in her voice like she thought she was 'all that'...." Discussions can be quite exhausting at times.
As a parent I feel such a sense of responsibility to guide them to a true understanding of what "love" is, both in friendships and those special relationships. We've had many talks about what God says real love is and what the world says love is. (I guess you could say this is where I'm encouraging my children to be counter-cultural. ) I want to be wise in giving them any kind of advice, wanting to be based in truth of scripture and not worldly wisdom. I want to teach them--show them--what "real" love looks like when it is "fleshed-out". But, wow...how does one do that??
The world says love is based on emotion, but scripture teaches it is based on giving, action, even sacrifice:
"For God loved the world so much He gave his only son, that whoever believes in him will not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)
"This is how God showed his love among us; He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him." (1 John 4:9)
1 John 3: 16 says, "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers."
Never mind being a foreign concept to my teenagers...this is a difficult concept for me to grasp! What does this really mean? How do I really do this in everyday life? How do I "love" the gas station attendant as he pumps my gas? How do I "love" the "sand paper people" in my life (those people that irritate me beyond belief but God has allowed them in my life to smooth out my rough edges)? When I was a young mother, how could I have loved my "neighbor" when I was exhausted from caring for small children, and didn't have resources like time or money (or energy) to give to someone else?
These are the thoughts that plague me. I battle the conflict between wanting to be an obedient, authentic servant, being real in my love for others; and yet not fall into a snare of self-condemnation and guilt that comes from fear that I'm not measuring up or meeting some invisible love-your-neighbor-daily-quotient-meter. "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." (1 JOHN 4:18) Hmmm. Lots to chew on.
What I'm learning is that there really isn't a "right" way--or more accurately, only one way to love others. (Okay, maybe I'm dull headed--many of you probably already have this figured out!) Instead of giving us one way to show love to others, God in His Word (and wisdom) gives a multitude of examples, leaving the field wide open: God gave his son; Christ died for us; Paul gave his life writing and teaching out of deep love 'for all the saints'; church members cared for the widows and orphans; others provided for the poor; and so on. Love is multi-faceted just like God.
When I consider the words, "God is love", I am compelled to look at him and examine him. Who is He? What is His character? It seems my ability to love others is proportionate to how well I know Him. The deeper my relationship goes with the Lord and the more intimately I know Him, the deeper and more intimately (I'm not talking romantically here) I can love others; And, I don't have to worry or "fear" about not measuring up or meeting a love-quotient because loving is a natural by-product of the relationship with God. God's Holy Spirit living inside of me guides me and shows me how to love others--It may be a word of encouragement, or an act of service, or it may mean praying in an intercessory manner--whatever is needed for that moment. My responsibility is to be "tuned in" and be willing to be obedient to the Spirit's direction. Again, I love the simplicity and freedom of following the Lord.
As we continue to travel this wild and wacky road through teenage heart-ache, I'm so thankful I can point each of them toward a love that never disappoints and never fails. I'm thankful for the example of how God loves us and how we can love others--without all the drama!
Friday, November 24, 2006
A Thanks-Giving Eve
It was a good Thanksgiving day. We had a "little" Thanksgiving gathering--My husband and myself, our 4 kids, my mother and one of my sisters and two of her kids. Everyone enjoyed themselves. We ate good food, watched a DVD, laughed, played a game, shared some stories, and went to bed with full tummies.
Even though the actual holiday was a blessing, I think I enjoyed "Thanksgiving Eve" almost more so. No, this isn't some strange family tradition that my family has--we don't attend Thanksgiving Eve services at church and sing Puritan songs, or beg to eat 'just one appetizer' the night before the big feast, or leave treats out for some mythically huge turkey who will come and leave us surprises--but we do prepare for the coming feast day in a somewhat ritualistic manner. There are pies to be made, jello salad that needs to be "molded", sweet potatoes that need to be cooked prior to being "candied"; special family dishes that need to be mixed together, ready to be cooked the next day.
There was something different about this "eve". All of my plans were thrown out the window when I woke up Wednesday morning extremely nauseous. This is definitely NOT how one wants to feel the day before Thanksgiving! I hadn't been feeling well for a few days, but convinced myself I was just tired, or just out of sorts--anything but sick. However, Wednesday morning convinced me that some "bug" had taken over my insides. After calling into work as a "no show" and canceling my last physical therapy session, I chose to get back into bed, unable to do much of anything else.
Crawling into bed I felt that sensation of worry mixed with responsibility, with a dash of obligation thrown in there. "We have to have Thanksgiving dinner! And what about Mom and my sister and her kids? They are planning on sharing the day with us!?!'
Then, clearly, impressed on my mind were the very words from James that I had been reading these past days in my Bible.
Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city,
spend a year there, carry on business and make money, [or have Thanksgiving
dinner and have the family over?]." Why, you do not even know what will
happen tomorrow. Instead you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we
will live and do this or that." James 4:13-15
In the next chapter, James writes, "Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray..."
Well, that's a novel idea. Surrendering Thanksgiving to the Lord. Hhmm. Surely James is only talking about our goals and ambitions, isn't he? Could he really be suggesting that I surrender everything to the Lord and ask Him if it is His will?? Yep, I think so. I couldn't shake it. God wants the details of our lives...even something that seems as benign as a holiday gathering.
So that's what I did. I prayed. I know this seems simple enough. I would love to say that prayer is always my first response to troubled or trying situations, but usually prayer comes in about third place. My initial reaction is just that, a reaction, complete with worry, agitation or grief, followed by a responsive action which kicks in my analyze-and-problem-solve-mode, working at finding a resolution to the situation. Then, finally third, is praying after I've settled down enough and have really thought about things. I'm working at having prayer be a first response....it's a process...but I'm learning!
So, finally, I prayed about this Thanksgiving Eve situation. I thanked the Lord for a cozy bed to sleep in, for a job that I can call in sick to (and know it won't be a huge inconvenience to my employer), for an illness that I was hopeful would last only a few days. And then I turned Thanksgiving over to the Lord. 'What do you want to do regarding Thanksgiving? I don't have a clue. Please show me what's what...and please work in Ron and kids and show them too and let us all know how this will work, if it will work, should we cancel, etc., okay?' t sounded like a lame-o prayer, but I knew the Lord would understand, and thankfully the Holy Spirit interprets! It was as eloquent I could muster in my compromised state.
I fell asleep and awakened 2 hours later.
I had such a peace. There was such a peace in knowing that whatever happened with Thanksgiving, God was in control.
As the day continued on, it was a day filled with blessings and joy as I watched God take care of the details. After sleeping, I felt a little better, but still on the "benched" list. The kids all rallied after school to pitch in and prepare things. Ron had called me from work and suggested we postpone the dinner until Sunday when I would hopefully be feeling better. I called my sister and Mom and gave them the heads up that things were not shaping up as I had planned, but, we could still possibly "do" Thanksgiving if the Lord cleared the way to do so. Everyone was on "stand by".
By dinner time, I was feeling pretty good! I had some energy and was able to eat a little bit. Things were looking up! I felt well enough to "do" Thanksgiving dinner and felt like the Lord was giving the green light to go ahead and inform my relatives to plan on it. I still had some grocery shopping to do, needing to gather those last few remaining items, so I enlisted my children to go to the store with me. They all willingly complied. We carried out our "divide and conquer" game plan at Winco and got done in record time amidst the masses. We actually had fun! Everyone was very much in a holiday spirit.
Once we got home, it was time to prepare the "favorite" dishes that would compliment the feast. So once again, having previously asked each of the children and Ron what food item they most wanted to have at the Thanksgiving dinner, I had that child help prepare their requested favorite. Everyone took a turn in the kitchen, mixing and measuring. It was so much fun. My daughter was ecstatic over making her first pecan pie ever!
Exhausted, I finally sat down 2 pies, 1 jello salad, 1 apple crisp, and one rice/broccoli casserole later. Looking around the living room, I realized that all six of us were present--at the same time--in the same room! This was a rare occasion! We began talking about the coming day, sharing what we like best about the holiday, discussing when we should put the outdoor Christmas lights up, and then figuring out the placement of this year's Christmas tree and arrangement of furniture. Someone shared a holiday memory, which began a stream of stories that made us all laugh and smile. We had such a great time together. Even my oldest son who seems to be rarely home, turned down repeated requests by friends to go out and socialize. We just enjoyed being together. It was such a blessing.
Thanksgiving day was really nice. The food was good. I felt better, although not great and not fully healthy. Everyone seemed to really enjoy the day. But really, Thanksgiving Eve, was my favorite part of the holiday. What a blessing from the Lord! He attended to details, worked in each person to make things "flow" and was so present in our family time. We couldn't have "planned" an evening like that--He orchestrated it beautifully.
I'm thankful for the lesson I learned this week about the simplicity of following the Lord. If I'm in trouble-- pray. Don't become locked-in to "plans", but instead, ask 'God, is this your will?' Then leave the driving and guiding to Him.
Friday, November 17, 2006
I'm Chevy Chase, and You're Not!
And now, it's time for the WEEKEND UPDATE.
Okay, I've dated myself... But those who remember SNL ( "Saturday Night Live") in its golden days (mid-1970's to early '80's) will remember Chevy Chase's famous tag line as he presented THE WEEKEND UPDATE, weekly...on Saturday nights...live. It just seemed fitting as I pieced together this entry. (At least I didn't use Dan Aykroyd's "Jane, you ignorant ..." That would have been hard to work into a post!)
Really, this is a post about "updates" not SNL or Chevy. Onward!
Rather than bore you with a long laborious post I thought I would share a few updates on life as we enter into the weekend.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
This is my birthday weekend--Sunday to be exact--#47! (How can that be??) Time to celebrate! Plans are in the works to have a girls night out ( possibly a slumber party too) with my two sisters at my oldest sister's house. It should be a really fun, relaxing time with lots of talking and laugher! A joint, family-dinner-out-at-a-nice-restaurant-celebration is also planned with my husband and the kids to celebrate my spouse's birthday as well. His big day was a week and a half ago and was a big one! We're still trying to coordinate everyone's schedules to make this dinner thing happen.
Really, this is a post about "updates" not SNL or Chevy. Onward!
Rather than bore you with a long laborious post I thought I would share a few updates on life as we enter into the weekend.
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
This is my birthday weekend--Sunday to be exact--#47! (How can that be??) Time to celebrate! Plans are in the works to have a girls night out ( possibly a slumber party too) with my two sisters at my oldest sister's house. It should be a really fun, relaxing time with lots of talking and laugher! A joint, family-dinner-out-at-a-nice-restaurant-celebration is also planned with my husband and the kids to celebrate my spouse's birthday as well. His big day was a week and a half ago and was a big one! We're still trying to coordinate everyone's schedules to make this dinner thing happen.~_~_~_~_~_~_~_~_~_~_~_~_~_
I am now 7 weeks past my wrist surgery. It has gone quickly. I am continuing to have physical therapy weekly and will for another couple of weeks. At my 6 week check the doctor said I was 'right where I should be' in the healing process, so that's great news. This week was the first that I've gone completely without wearing my splint! Woohoo! I also only took Advil one day this week and there are more days without swelling than days with! My pain level is pretty much nil. The tricky part now is regaining coordination and strength in my hand and wrist and stretching daily to work out the stiffness and get my range of motion back. I even have some pretty neon yellow "putty" to play with!
I have two sets of scars; one on the top side of my wrist where they repaired the frayed edges of torn cartilage, and then on the palm side of my hand and wrist where he decompressed the ulnar nerve. I have a wild zig zag scar from almost mid-palm (centered under my ring finger) down to my wrist. It zigs, then zags, then zigs again. It is improving daily and according to the doctor, a year from now it will blend in more!! (ugh!)
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I am now 7 weeks past my wrist surgery. It has gone quickly. I am continuing to have physical therapy weekly and will for another couple of weeks. At my 6 week check the doctor said I was 'right where I should be' in the healing process, so that's great news. This week was the first that I've gone completely without wearing my splint! Woohoo! I also only took Advil one day this week and there are more days without swelling than days with! My pain level is pretty much nil. The tricky part now is regaining coordination and strength in my hand and wrist and stretching daily to work out the stiffness and get my range of motion back. I even have some pretty neon yellow "putty" to play with!
I have two sets of scars; one on the top side of my wrist where they repaired the frayed edges of torn cartilage, and then on the palm side of my hand and wrist where he decompressed the ulnar nerve. I have a wild zig zag scar from almost mid-palm (centered under my ring finger) down to my wrist. It zigs, then zags, then zigs again. It is improving daily and according to the doctor, a year from now it will blend in more!! (ugh!)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mom began chemotherapy this week. The doctors determined this was her "window" if she was going to try it. She has a lot of peace in that decision and one that she made on her own. We are all supportive of whatever she decides--its her life. So far she is doing well and feeling optimistic. It will be another week or so before she really begins demonstrating side affects, but so far she has felt good, just tired.
I don't know why things happen like this, but this past Wednesday, just prior to receiving her first chemo, Mom received a call informing her that her sister, Helen, had died early that morning. She is Mom's oldest sibling, and the last member alive of her immediate family. It was a surprise. Although Aunt Helen had been in an Alzheimers care facility, she had been in good health and doing relatively well, I believe. (Aunt Helen was 75? Something like that. My Mom is 68.) Although they don't have all the information yet my cousin, Steve, said it appears she went to bed Tuesday night and died sometime during the night in her sleep. God is so merciful.
Please be praying for Mom as she is on this part of her journey. It is such an unknown, but she is knowing the Lord deeper in new ways as she moves forward.
********
My mother-in-law was hospitalized last weekend. They are still trying to determine what is wrong with her, but have narrowed it down to a possibility of two very serious viruses. She has had declining health all year, but regardless of how often she is hospitalized and we all think "this is it", she comes back from the edge of death and keeps going strong. We are praying that the Lord will take her home to Heaven quickly and peacefully when His timing is right. Please pray for my husband and his sisters as they continue addressing her needs and continue to make decisions regarding her care and treatment. Please pray for peace for my mother-in-law.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I have been working full-time hours for about 4 weeks now. My little part-time clerical job (15-20 hours a week doing basic clerical work) has suddenly hit high speed, fast and furious, as the insurance guy I work for is in the middle of a big project. It has been a bit tricky adjusting to this kind of schedule and accomplishing anything at home, or do any kind of floral work--but so far, so good. The 
extra money will be great as we head into the holidays and, again, God's provision, he is supplying all of our needs for a few financial "things" we hadn't anticipated. I have enjoyed being busy and even more-so since my hand and wrist continue to heal. This schedule should continue through February or March and then taper off again.
@~@~@~@~@~@~@~@~@
The Holidays are coming. Not really sure I'm "ready" for them, but sipping a peppermint mocha at Starbucks last night helped a wee bit. It felt "special". I started feeling the stirrings of holiday-ish-ness. It made me think of one of my favorite Christmas-season songs, "Silver Bells." I connected with this song at some point in my childhood and I've always loved it. It makes me feel all warm and cozy. Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters do the best version on Bing's Christmas album...yes I said album...or as my kids used to say when they were little, 'the really big CD's'.
"Silver Bells"
Silver Bells, Silver Bells
It's Christmas time in the city
Ring-a-ling, hear them ring
Soon it will be Christmas Day
City sidewalks
Busy sidewalks
Dressed in holiday style
In the air there's
A feeling of Christmas
Children laughing
People passing
Meeting smile after smile
And on every
Street corner you'll hear
Silver Bells, Silver Bells
It's Christmas time in the city
Ring-a-ling, hear them sing
Soon it will be Christmas Day
Strings of street lights
Even stoplights
Blink a bright red and green
As the shoppers rush home
With their treasures
Hear the snow crunch
See the kids bunch
This is Santa's big scene
And above all
This bustle you'll here
Silver Bells, Silver Bells
It's Christmas time in the city
Ring-a-ling, hear them sing
Soon it will be Christmas Day
Silver Bells, Silver Bells
It's Christmas time in the city
Ring-a-ling, hear them sing
Soon it will be Christmas Day
Soon it will be Christmas Day
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself, first things first...
Happy Thanksgiving!!
Okay, I'm getting ahead of myself, first things first...
Happy Thanksgiving!!
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Ad-vo-ca-cy: Speaking up
ad·vo·ca·cy n.
The act of pleading or arguing in favor of something, such as a cause, idea, or policy; active support.
Advocacy. This "idea" has been on my mind a lot lately. It seems I'm encountering it almost daily. Though the venues are different, the heart of the matter is the same...individuals with passionate conviction who argue in favor of or show their active support, speaking truth on behalf of someone or something.
Many fellow bloggers have recently been advocates, or have found themselves becoming advocates. My friend Kim shares her "October Blues" experience about being an advocate for her church, supporting the building of relationships and connecting with one another in the church body. Jennifer, another dear one, who is passionate about others sharing their story of how God has moved in their life and is anticipating the unifying effect it will have on the church family. My newly transplanted blogging friend from Mississippi Yolanda has become an advocate for Pacific Northwest living and presenting the case for enjoying the beauty that surrounds this area and the One who created it. And then, there are still others like Leah who challenges us all to "Cooperate with Joy", or Libby who examines advocacy up close and shares that with us in her "Pain Killer" entry; and a couple of my fellow blogging "brothers" Dean and Dallas who discuss the recent confession of the hidden lifestyle and sin of Ted Haggard, and their plea in favor of being Christ-like, advocating a response from fellow believers that is grace-filled.
In my own experiences as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, Believer, church member, leader, employee... etc., I have been called to be an advocate quite a lot lately. I'm discovering it is not for the faint of heart. Although my "platforms" have been on a much smaller scale and not as profound as some others, I find a kinship with other advocates. I think of well known advocates like Martin Luther King, Jr., Billy Graham, and Gandhi and consider the price they paid for "speaking up". There seems to always be a "cost" to being an advocate; it may be as minimal as someone just verbally communicating disagreement, or on the extreme end of the spectrum, bodily injury or even death if the wrong person is ticked off.
So, I ponder-- Why speak up for someone we don't know, or some value or principle we strongly believe is right and truthful?; Why take on the cause of fighting injustices even when it doesn't directly affect us?
I consider scripture that speaks of being an advocate. Proverbs 31:8, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and the needy." And Luke 10:27, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, love your neighbor as yourself." I'm convicted in that I am called to this life of "speaking up" for others or injustices. I have a responsibility to my "neighbor"--to actively love them. (The story of the Good Samaritan lives this out)
I'm challenged by the practice of advocacy, serving in word and deed, and keenly aware at how often I fail in it. I can see the need to "speak up" all around me, or live out my convictions by my actions and yet, at times, I'm too much of a chicken to do what is right. I can default into 'self-protect' mode and stay quiet rather than arguing in favor of a cause or stand against injustices; or my skin is still a little too thin and I fear a critical comment or two. This is what I am growing in these days...being confronted with...internally being asked the question, "What will you do with this, Cheryl?" It's scary and unknown, but good. The conviction and call to be Christ-like keeps me driving forward one step at a time.
Baby steps and practice... that's what I'm learning, but I want to press on. This is just the beginning and believe me, I'm fumbling through this more than I'm feeling "successful". I want to be an "advocate" for advocacy and ask you to join me. If you need a starting point, I'd suggest checking out blogging brother Brad's (I couldn't resist the alliteration) recently posted pictures. This moving post should compel us all to act, or react as the case may be. At the very least it should convict us all to answer that mass-mailed "Thanksgiving Dinner" donation plea we all receive from the local rescue mission. Baby steps.... I've also included two links below to some other "causes" that are dear to my heart that I want to "speak up" for. I encourage you to check them out and become involved in some manner.
The Dalit Freedom Network is an organization that my family became acquainted with this past year. The "Dalits" of India are known as "the untouchables" and it means just what the name implies. I had the opportunity to go to India this past year and had the privilege of meeting some Dalit women. I was overwhelmed on so many levels. I caught only a glimpse and minimal understanding of the injustices these dear people face daily...but my heart was broken. My family joyfully sponsors a Dalit child through this website, so that they can attend school and have hope in their lives. I encourage you to consider becoming involved in their lives as well.
Another "cause" that has come to the forefront this past week is on behalf of my dear friend "K" and her family. K's brother and sister-in-law have been imprisoned for trying to rescue their daughter, Brittany (K's niece)from known abuse at the hands of Brittany's biological father. Our twisted court system is not protecting Brittany, but rather has given her over to the biological father. Save Our Brittany is a developing website where more will be coming forward on how to help and support this devastated family and ways you can be involved in being an advocate for them. Please be praying for them, pleading their cause to our Heavenly Father (a prayer guide is posted on the website) and please send them notes of encouragement via the website.
The act of pleading or arguing in favor of something, such as a cause, idea, or policy; active support.
Advocacy. This "idea" has been on my mind a lot lately. It seems I'm encountering it almost daily. Though the venues are different, the heart of the matter is the same...individuals with passionate conviction who argue in favor of or show their active support, speaking truth on behalf of someone or something.
Many fellow bloggers have recently been advocates, or have found themselves becoming advocates. My friend Kim shares her "October Blues" experience about being an advocate for her church, supporting the building of relationships and connecting with one another in the church body. Jennifer, another dear one, who is passionate about others sharing their story of how God has moved in their life and is anticipating the unifying effect it will have on the church family. My newly transplanted blogging friend from Mississippi Yolanda has become an advocate for Pacific Northwest living and presenting the case for enjoying the beauty that surrounds this area and the One who created it. And then, there are still others like Leah who challenges us all to "Cooperate with Joy", or Libby who examines advocacy up close and shares that with us in her "Pain Killer" entry; and a couple of my fellow blogging "brothers" Dean and Dallas who discuss the recent confession of the hidden lifestyle and sin of Ted Haggard, and their plea in favor of being Christ-like, advocating a response from fellow believers that is grace-filled.
In my own experiences as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, Believer, church member, leader, employee... etc., I have been called to be an advocate quite a lot lately. I'm discovering it is not for the faint of heart. Although my "platforms" have been on a much smaller scale and not as profound as some others, I find a kinship with other advocates. I think of well known advocates like Martin Luther King, Jr., Billy Graham, and Gandhi and consider the price they paid for "speaking up". There seems to always be a "cost" to being an advocate; it may be as minimal as someone just verbally communicating disagreement, or on the extreme end of the spectrum, bodily injury or even death if the wrong person is ticked off.
So, I ponder-- Why speak up for someone we don't know, or some value or principle we strongly believe is right and truthful?; Why take on the cause of fighting injustices even when it doesn't directly affect us?
I consider scripture that speaks of being an advocate. Proverbs 31:8, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and the needy." And Luke 10:27, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, love your neighbor as yourself." I'm convicted in that I am called to this life of "speaking up" for others or injustices. I have a responsibility to my "neighbor"--to actively love them. (The story of the Good Samaritan lives this out)
I'm challenged by the practice of advocacy, serving in word and deed, and keenly aware at how often I fail in it. I can see the need to "speak up" all around me, or live out my convictions by my actions and yet, at times, I'm too much of a chicken to do what is right. I can default into 'self-protect' mode and stay quiet rather than arguing in favor of a cause or stand against injustices; or my skin is still a little too thin and I fear a critical comment or two. This is what I am growing in these days...being confronted with...internally being asked the question, "What will you do with this, Cheryl?" It's scary and unknown, but good. The conviction and call to be Christ-like keeps me driving forward one step at a time.
Baby steps and practice... that's what I'm learning, but I want to press on. This is just the beginning and believe me, I'm fumbling through this more than I'm feeling "successful". I want to be an "advocate" for advocacy and ask you to join me. If you need a starting point, I'd suggest checking out blogging brother Brad's (I couldn't resist the alliteration) recently posted pictures. This moving post should compel us all to act, or react as the case may be. At the very least it should convict us all to answer that mass-mailed "Thanksgiving Dinner" donation plea we all receive from the local rescue mission. Baby steps.... I've also included two links below to some other "causes" that are dear to my heart that I want to "speak up" for. I encourage you to check them out and become involved in some manner.
The Dalit Freedom Network is an organization that my family became acquainted with this past year. The "Dalits" of India are known as "the untouchables" and it means just what the name implies. I had the opportunity to go to India this past year and had the privilege of meeting some Dalit women. I was overwhelmed on so many levels. I caught only a glimpse and minimal understanding of the injustices these dear people face daily...but my heart was broken. My family joyfully sponsors a Dalit child through this website, so that they can attend school and have hope in their lives. I encourage you to consider becoming involved in their lives as well.
Another "cause" that has come to the forefront this past week is on behalf of my dear friend "K" and her family. K's brother and sister-in-law have been imprisoned for trying to rescue their daughter, Brittany (K's niece)from known abuse at the hands of Brittany's biological father. Our twisted court system is not protecting Brittany, but rather has given her over to the biological father. Save Our Brittany is a developing website where more will be coming forward on how to help and support this devastated family and ways you can be involved in being an advocate for them. Please be praying for them, pleading their cause to our Heavenly Father (a prayer guide is posted on the website) and please send them notes of encouragement via the website.
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