Remembering the experience of September 11, 2001 and determining our response and reaction continues to change and grow daily. One of the issues I believe America is struggling with is exactly how we see ourselves. Now there has always been a difference between rural and urban living but some of the lines there were once marks of distinctions that identified where someone lived or where they were from no longer exist..
Life in Southeastern Kentucky has herself made many changes over just the past 20 years, although it might be difficult for some to see the changes. Changes like who lives here and who is our neighbor has changed. I remember driving my grandfather up the roads of Stinking Creek and he could tell you who lived in every home, and something about them and their family. Today, folks do a lot of moving and ”homesteads” in the mountains that everyone once could identify have changed and single family dwellings are one example of change that occurred.
20 years ago our communities were also individually known, but not today. Fourmile is Pineville; Meldrum is Middlesboro; Goldbug is Williamsburg; In Corbin, the urban cluster is confusing because city services are provided in areas not officially Corbin, Ky; Popular Grove is even considered Barbourville; One could blame the postal service and say the closing of Offices that were once staples of our communities is the reason for this merger but nevertheless, it is what it is, things have changed. We’ve gladly taken on a new identity if it provided benefits and services, while honestly loosing just a bit of ourselves along the way. I am not suggesting that this is a bad thing, but merely pointing out that identifying ourselves can be a problem especially as the America of just a few years ago prior to the attacks of 9-11.
English is our native language and here in the mountains we haven’t had any issues understanding one another as we’ve talked. We have long considered the issue of foreign languages to be something that big city’s must content with. However, there is not a schools system in Southeastern Kentucky, a Law Enforcement Agency or a provider of health services that has not needed assistance with interpretation because our mountains neighbors are changing.
One factor that if consistent, I am confident could assist in this transition, would be a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Respecting people, all people is not a new liberal position that has been announced by the Democratic Party. The greatest liberator of all time, Jesus Christ set all people free long before our current system of government was established. Honesty and integrity were not created by the Republican Party those characteristic were created by Jesus Christ, who also established mercy and grace.
If individuals were to institute the teachings of the Bible into their daily lives we would not have to worry about corporate greed and abuse, because individuals living the right way would win out in every decision.
Could be I am just dreaming about a time past, but I don’t accept that position. Jesus never wanted us to live in the past, but rather to press forward. We all have choices and while we may have an identity crisis taking place today, the answer is still in front of us if we would chose to accept
Until then
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Sunday, September 13, 2009
September 11, 2001 - Hope & Peace hand in hand
The United States is always in fast mode to show quick remembrance and then run to the next event or moment. Last week I wrote about how the three current living generations have been impacted by events and moments with a special emphasis for 9-11-01.
The date, September the 11th is a date that has many memories prior to the terrorist attack that occurred in New York City, at the Pentagon in Washington and the memorial of an open field in Pennsylvania that was Flight 93. Certainly the terrorist attack on that date in 2001 has overshadowed all other world events. I know of individuals who were born on September 11th, I officiated at the wedding of Mr. Mrs. Lance Kidd on that date in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Golden Rule Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star in London, Ky., was founded on that date in the year 1909.
In the fast mode of living that seems to be the custom here in the U.S. we feel good to remember things on specific dates but I believe the real lesson for learning is that we are impacted daily because of the experienced living we have witnessed and participated throughout our life. President Abraham Lincoln in The Gettysburg Address delivered on November 19, 1863, provided then and now a position that we should each hold to and strive in emulation. President Lincoln on that day said, “It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, but the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth”.
The sacrifice of lives for freedom and principals is nothing new to the experience of life. The call to duty has at times been one clearly seen on the approaching horizon while during other time frames we have been caught off-guard totally for that moment. On September 11, 2001 there was both an approaching danger seen by the government and a moment that caught us as individual citizens mostly unaware.
With confusion and still unanswered questions since 2001, our Nation and the world continues to deal with the affects of the decisions made that day, but we have not stopped moving neither forward as a Nation nor as individuals. Obstacles and set backs are a part of life that must be dealt with through attitude, redirection, and constant dreams of the future.
The greatest gift of hope and peace I have discovered was found in Jesus Christ. Hope is all about the things you have not yet placed your hands on, nor the things you have yet to see with your eyes. Some folks will never believe until they see, but the blessings come in seeing with your heart and not your eyes. Peace goes hand-n-hand with hope and again the source I have found for that answer is in Jesus Christ.
September 11, 2001 is one date in our Nations History, and while today may not be marked by world-wide historical documentation, but the positive difference you decided to make in just one life may very well be all the difference in the world thus changing the course of history.
Until then
The date, September the 11th is a date that has many memories prior to the terrorist attack that occurred in New York City, at the Pentagon in Washington and the memorial of an open field in Pennsylvania that was Flight 93. Certainly the terrorist attack on that date in 2001 has overshadowed all other world events. I know of individuals who were born on September 11th, I officiated at the wedding of Mr. Mrs. Lance Kidd on that date in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Golden Rule Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star in London, Ky., was founded on that date in the year 1909.
In the fast mode of living that seems to be the custom here in the U.S. we feel good to remember things on specific dates but I believe the real lesson for learning is that we are impacted daily because of the experienced living we have witnessed and participated throughout our life. President Abraham Lincoln in The Gettysburg Address delivered on November 19, 1863, provided then and now a position that we should each hold to and strive in emulation. President Lincoln on that day said, “It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, but the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth”.
The sacrifice of lives for freedom and principals is nothing new to the experience of life. The call to duty has at times been one clearly seen on the approaching horizon while during other time frames we have been caught off-guard totally for that moment. On September 11, 2001 there was both an approaching danger seen by the government and a moment that caught us as individual citizens mostly unaware.
With confusion and still unanswered questions since 2001, our Nation and the world continues to deal with the affects of the decisions made that day, but we have not stopped moving neither forward as a Nation nor as individuals. Obstacles and set backs are a part of life that must be dealt with through attitude, redirection, and constant dreams of the future.
The greatest gift of hope and peace I have discovered was found in Jesus Christ. Hope is all about the things you have not yet placed your hands on, nor the things you have yet to see with your eyes. Some folks will never believe until they see, but the blessings come in seeing with your heart and not your eyes. Peace goes hand-n-hand with hope and again the source I have found for that answer is in Jesus Christ.
September 11, 2001 is one date in our Nations History, and while today may not be marked by world-wide historical documentation, but the positive difference you decided to make in just one life may very well be all the difference in the world thus changing the course of history.
Until then
Sunday, September 6, 2009
September 11, 2001 - "One source for Peace"
The United States stands in memory and memorial regarding September 11, 2001. (9-11). Individuals who are baby boomers and who have the full experience of that generation group, having moments to recall of significance are many. Certainly some individuals might not have an emphasis on events, and if that is the case, I suspect that is do to a lack of involvement in following news or staying current on civic events daily.
Our world today stands among the many winds that blow and our world takes hits daily across the globe. The only fear I have today is not one that regards life after death, as that I settled back in 1972. We’ve all heard of that that consider themselves to be an island off in their own world and that is my fear. Growing up as a teenager and young adult, I have had my moments where I considered that my actions and decisions had to deal with only myself, and that my work had to do with only me. Not sure how I could have developed such a childish point of view, but nevertheless, it happened on different occasions and I guess I should be thankful that my parents overlooked my self position and viewed me as I was, a long way off from growing up.
The decisions we make daily have an impact. Yes, some of the decisions are simple and have no profound impact on our surroundings, but other decisions and actions that we engage in have a wide range of impacts and this should be safe guarded. Consider others is not the easiest thing to do from a stubborn heart position, but when individual have character and integrity proper motives always shine through in their actions as we observe.
9-11 is a moment that causes America and the world to stop and pause, including reflection regarding the actions of others. The history books should reflect that this day had both of the affects of individual actions and decisions. Positive and Negative both flow for the decisions of others and how we reflect and evaluate determines the memory we pass on to the next generation. My youngest niece is not old enough to remember the events of that day, but she will be living out the experience and direct outcome from that day for her remaining life. The words that cover the period of time have now changed our conversations forever. Some individuals who never consider the world outside our boarders now take a moment to hear what is happen in the remaining world throughout their day. It is important, many have learned, to know sometimes what is happening a”cross the street and down the road”.
Protecting our freedoms is not just our government’s task or responsibility, but rather, it is our individual responsibilities to protect and care for ourselves and even those of others. Considering what is the best step to peace and harmony would begin with an inward look into our hearts. As a Christian I don’t always agree with every other Christian in the world but one thing I know for certain. If every professing Christian in the world took time to love our neighbors as our selves and if we also gave like time to pray for our enemies, I do believe we would have many more positive moments to remember in life than negative heart breaking situations.
There is a peace that passes all understanding, and it come from only one source, Him-Jesus.
Until then
Our world today stands among the many winds that blow and our world takes hits daily across the globe. The only fear I have today is not one that regards life after death, as that I settled back in 1972. We’ve all heard of that that consider themselves to be an island off in their own world and that is my fear. Growing up as a teenager and young adult, I have had my moments where I considered that my actions and decisions had to deal with only myself, and that my work had to do with only me. Not sure how I could have developed such a childish point of view, but nevertheless, it happened on different occasions and I guess I should be thankful that my parents overlooked my self position and viewed me as I was, a long way off from growing up.
The decisions we make daily have an impact. Yes, some of the decisions are simple and have no profound impact on our surroundings, but other decisions and actions that we engage in have a wide range of impacts and this should be safe guarded. Consider others is not the easiest thing to do from a stubborn heart position, but when individual have character and integrity proper motives always shine through in their actions as we observe.
9-11 is a moment that causes America and the world to stop and pause, including reflection regarding the actions of others. The history books should reflect that this day had both of the affects of individual actions and decisions. Positive and Negative both flow for the decisions of others and how we reflect and evaluate determines the memory we pass on to the next generation. My youngest niece is not old enough to remember the events of that day, but she will be living out the experience and direct outcome from that day for her remaining life. The words that cover the period of time have now changed our conversations forever. Some individuals who never consider the world outside our boarders now take a moment to hear what is happen in the remaining world throughout their day. It is important, many have learned, to know sometimes what is happening a”cross the street and down the road”.
Protecting our freedoms is not just our government’s task or responsibility, but rather, it is our individual responsibilities to protect and care for ourselves and even those of others. Considering what is the best step to peace and harmony would begin with an inward look into our hearts. As a Christian I don’t always agree with every other Christian in the world but one thing I know for certain. If every professing Christian in the world took time to love our neighbors as our selves and if we also gave like time to pray for our enemies, I do believe we would have many more positive moments to remember in life than negative heart breaking situations.
There is a peace that passes all understanding, and it come from only one source, Him-Jesus.
Until then
Sunday, August 23, 2009
What opinion will you practice?
The sharing of an opinion has the opportunity to provide a positive learning experience. I have never kept a daily log to tabulate the number of opinions I have heard throughout the course of a single day, but I believe it would be a fun project to just keep a record to see all the things you think of in a 24 hour setting.
I have heard preachers, pastor’s and teachers often say, in reference to being a Christian, that it is easy. Not sure what they base their opinion on, but my personal experience is not one that I can say has been easy, as there are many difficult things about being a Christian, and following Him is just one of those difficult experiences. I have said many times that “loving your enemies” is not a very fun thing to do, and certainly “praying for them” is not something that you just wake up in the morning all excited about. I believe practicing that example of Christianity is difficult. As a Christian we can be successful in loving our enemies and praying for them, but it requires serious work and a commitment to follow Him.
Jesus was a friend to sinners. Sounds easy to say, but difficult to practice. The Apostle Paul said that he was chief of sinners and that is a very different opinion to hear as many folks believe Christians are “perfect in someway” or that they “never do wrong”.
I have always identified myself as a sinner, not that is it something I am proud of or boastful of, but it certainly is something that I am always mindful of, and that has always served me well in working with others, being mindful that even when we miss our marks, or His mark for our lives, He still loves us and His plan is still at work in our lives.
That is a very difficult opinion to believe in because most people enjoy watching others suffer and have difficult experiences that seem to bring them down, or as some say, “shows them” type of attitude. I Cor 13: has something to say about that, and if we the human race, we don’t get excited about their wrong doing and or their punishment. Rather we strive to find a way to walk beside people, a look for opportunity to be a real friend, and most importantly we don’t step back when the hour has arrived. When I look at Jesus and His example, I see His opinion everywhere. In Luke Chapter 14: we see plenty of His opinion and extended friendship. He healed the man with Dropsy and how about His association with the ten lepers; Jesus loved rich young rulers and blind beggars. Of course headline news would have reported that Jesus gave Zacchaeus a second chance too. All opinions that if practiced, are not easy as a Christian.
For whatever reason, we like for people to like us, we want to be appreciated, and respected, so sometimes, we don’t get involved or we will not associate with individuals
because of their bad reputation, but that wasn’t the opinion of Jesus.
Until then
I have heard preachers, pastor’s and teachers often say, in reference to being a Christian, that it is easy. Not sure what they base their opinion on, but my personal experience is not one that I can say has been easy, as there are many difficult things about being a Christian, and following Him is just one of those difficult experiences. I have said many times that “loving your enemies” is not a very fun thing to do, and certainly “praying for them” is not something that you just wake up in the morning all excited about. I believe practicing that example of Christianity is difficult. As a Christian we can be successful in loving our enemies and praying for them, but it requires serious work and a commitment to follow Him.
Jesus was a friend to sinners. Sounds easy to say, but difficult to practice. The Apostle Paul said that he was chief of sinners and that is a very different opinion to hear as many folks believe Christians are “perfect in someway” or that they “never do wrong”.
I have always identified myself as a sinner, not that is it something I am proud of or boastful of, but it certainly is something that I am always mindful of, and that has always served me well in working with others, being mindful that even when we miss our marks, or His mark for our lives, He still loves us and His plan is still at work in our lives.
That is a very difficult opinion to believe in because most people enjoy watching others suffer and have difficult experiences that seem to bring them down, or as some say, “shows them” type of attitude. I Cor 13: has something to say about that, and if we the human race, we don’t get excited about their wrong doing and or their punishment. Rather we strive to find a way to walk beside people, a look for opportunity to be a real friend, and most importantly we don’t step back when the hour has arrived. When I look at Jesus and His example, I see His opinion everywhere. In Luke Chapter 14: we see plenty of His opinion and extended friendship. He healed the man with Dropsy and how about His association with the ten lepers; Jesus loved rich young rulers and blind beggars. Of course headline news would have reported that Jesus gave Zacchaeus a second chance too. All opinions that if practiced, are not easy as a Christian.
For whatever reason, we like for people to like us, we want to be appreciated, and respected, so sometimes, we don’t get involved or we will not associate with individuals
because of their bad reputation, but that wasn’t the opinion of Jesus.
Until then
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Debbie Cook - An Example to follow....
In a recent article I wrote about making a difference. Using what we have, where we are. I have discovered that sometimes when I am speaking to various groups some folks seem to understanding immediately what I am talking about and they can clearly see how they can do it from their individual view points. Many times those same individuals will come out and throw out an idea about what they can do today, and I assume some of those same many will make it happen. At other times when speaking, attempting to motivate you can see the look on their faces, or what their expressions, and determine you might be fighting a battle there is not way to win, because they are not committed to that type of purpose or calling.
The announcement by Debbie Cook to step down from the Corbin Board of Education, of which she served as Chairman for 12 years, is one individual we can look to and say, here is an example of someone that has made a difference. Of course her work on the Board of Education might have seemed like a career in and of itself, but the witness I see is even greater then this one mile post in her life.
Debbie Cook is someone that has always been first and foremost a mother. Her and Chandler have always held to family first and their children’s growth and leadership has been seen throughout their academic years and even now their adulthood. Raising a family to be hard workers and to be individuals that others respect because of their individual actions is no easy feat. I am sure Debbie is smiling about now thinking I am fooled, knowing her kids are kids and each of us have had moments of not such great shining light syndrome, but nevertheless, as a mother, she is an example of pressing forward, loving your children and also launching them to their own foundation to stand.
Her service to the Commonwealth of Kentucky is documented with awards, certificates and recognitions for outstanding service, and I cannot help but keep in mind that she juggled a career with State Government, a career as a mother & wife, a career as a member of the CBOE and her love for Jesus Christ is now seen in this next move as the Director of Children’s Ministries at Central Baptist Church, Corbin.
The great opportunity in life that we each have is the chance to make friends and to even observe our friends in action. Debbie Cook is someone that I am thankful for as my personal life has been enhanced because of our friendship and experiences over the years, many of which include worship services and ministry events through church. Today I cannot help but think what a blessing the little ones at Central Baptist are about to receive as they get the 100% dedication of Debbie Cook’ life and passion for children.
When you consider the importance of planting where we are planted, I cannot help but think how blessed Corbin has been in the move that she and Chandler made in their decision to move to Corbin and make this home for themselves and their children. We are all the better for their decision. So often we hear people say, what I do only affects me, but clearly we all can see, the decisions we make clearly touch many lives from every direction.
God is good, all the time, and He blessing us in many ways.
Until then
The announcement by Debbie Cook to step down from the Corbin Board of Education, of which she served as Chairman for 12 years, is one individual we can look to and say, here is an example of someone that has made a difference. Of course her work on the Board of Education might have seemed like a career in and of itself, but the witness I see is even greater then this one mile post in her life.
Debbie Cook is someone that has always been first and foremost a mother. Her and Chandler have always held to family first and their children’s growth and leadership has been seen throughout their academic years and even now their adulthood. Raising a family to be hard workers and to be individuals that others respect because of their individual actions is no easy feat. I am sure Debbie is smiling about now thinking I am fooled, knowing her kids are kids and each of us have had moments of not such great shining light syndrome, but nevertheless, as a mother, she is an example of pressing forward, loving your children and also launching them to their own foundation to stand.
Her service to the Commonwealth of Kentucky is documented with awards, certificates and recognitions for outstanding service, and I cannot help but keep in mind that she juggled a career with State Government, a career as a mother & wife, a career as a member of the CBOE and her love for Jesus Christ is now seen in this next move as the Director of Children’s Ministries at Central Baptist Church, Corbin.
The great opportunity in life that we each have is the chance to make friends and to even observe our friends in action. Debbie Cook is someone that I am thankful for as my personal life has been enhanced because of our friendship and experiences over the years, many of which include worship services and ministry events through church. Today I cannot help but think what a blessing the little ones at Central Baptist are about to receive as they get the 100% dedication of Debbie Cook’ life and passion for children.
When you consider the importance of planting where we are planted, I cannot help but think how blessed Corbin has been in the move that she and Chandler made in their decision to move to Corbin and make this home for themselves and their children. We are all the better for their decision. So often we hear people say, what I do only affects me, but clearly we all can see, the decisions we make clearly touch many lives from every direction.
God is good, all the time, and He blessing us in many ways.
Until then
Sunday, August 9, 2009
It's a good feeling to know folks care...
Knowing you are cared for is not exactly the easiest thing to buy into totally. Life extends some very hard knocks to individuals and even families. It would be nice to say that all one needs to do each morning is rise and shine and off we go on the yellow brick road, but that’s not true. Yes, we should rise and shine and that is a positive attitude that makes a difference, but even the yellow brick road may contact some patch work that we must be aware of as we travel.
For those who have experienced the pot holes and detours off the yellow brick road will know doubt find it difficult to be cheerleaders all the time. If we are giving applause for truthfulness, then let’s be honest and admit that life is not a pot hole free travel. When I look back at life I am at a spot where I am thankful for those rough moments in life that has caused me to reconsider, rethink and reevaluate where I am and where I am heading.
It is amazing how feeling like others care about you has such a connection to our own self worth and confidence. Honesty mandates that we understand not everyone who says that they care, actually does, but nevertheless knowing that some folks care does provide a foundation that we can use as a solid footing for a road filled with holes and detours. We expect that family cares, but some could share this is not true at all. Sad that our families are not concerned nor care, but it is what it is. I wish I could write that our friends will always be true but that will not be 100% accurate either.
What I can say is that when I am down I consider the value and worth that Jesus Christ sees in me and that often lifts me up. Sometimes I have been tired and just not able to press on with a happy smile in spite of the happy disposition I want to display. Especially in that situation, I am grateful for the love that He has already shown me. What an encouragement to rely on Him for that smile when my facial cheeks don’t want to life showing a happy face.
You can achieve that disposition by remembering that you were first created in His image. What a unique spot to consider. The creator of the Universe made me in His image. I have all the talents and skills necessary, but I might need to get them out and polish them up after I dust them off. Often times we have what we need in life, but he are just not familiar with how it works or maybe even how to turn it on?
Another fact worth considering is that He doesn’t place more on us then we can bear. Certainly I have thought I was crushed on several occasions only to remind myself that it’s not true. I maybe crushed, but not in despair. Knowing I have a direction and answer in whom to turn to is very encouraging.
Jesus Christ really does love us and He does have an abundant plan for our lives. One of my personal self caring traits is to be reminded that His plan is best for me and even though I may have many questions about how things work out in the end. Learning how to lean on Jesus is definitely an answer. That answer works when we are wondering if anyone really cares. When all is said and done, know this one fact for certain. Jesus cares, always has, always will.
Until then
For those who have experienced the pot holes and detours off the yellow brick road will know doubt find it difficult to be cheerleaders all the time. If we are giving applause for truthfulness, then let’s be honest and admit that life is not a pot hole free travel. When I look back at life I am at a spot where I am thankful for those rough moments in life that has caused me to reconsider, rethink and reevaluate where I am and where I am heading.
It is amazing how feeling like others care about you has such a connection to our own self worth and confidence. Honesty mandates that we understand not everyone who says that they care, actually does, but nevertheless knowing that some folks care does provide a foundation that we can use as a solid footing for a road filled with holes and detours. We expect that family cares, but some could share this is not true at all. Sad that our families are not concerned nor care, but it is what it is. I wish I could write that our friends will always be true but that will not be 100% accurate either.
What I can say is that when I am down I consider the value and worth that Jesus Christ sees in me and that often lifts me up. Sometimes I have been tired and just not able to press on with a happy smile in spite of the happy disposition I want to display. Especially in that situation, I am grateful for the love that He has already shown me. What an encouragement to rely on Him for that smile when my facial cheeks don’t want to life showing a happy face.
You can achieve that disposition by remembering that you were first created in His image. What a unique spot to consider. The creator of the Universe made me in His image. I have all the talents and skills necessary, but I might need to get them out and polish them up after I dust them off. Often times we have what we need in life, but he are just not familiar with how it works or maybe even how to turn it on?
Another fact worth considering is that He doesn’t place more on us then we can bear. Certainly I have thought I was crushed on several occasions only to remind myself that it’s not true. I maybe crushed, but not in despair. Knowing I have a direction and answer in whom to turn to is very encouraging.
Jesus Christ really does love us and He does have an abundant plan for our lives. One of my personal self caring traits is to be reminded that His plan is best for me and even though I may have many questions about how things work out in the end. Learning how to lean on Jesus is definitely an answer. That answer works when we are wondering if anyone really cares. When all is said and done, know this one fact for certain. Jesus cares, always has, always will.
Until then
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