All Toes in the Water

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Projects)

2011-11-18T06:32:00.000-06:00

I’m thankful for projects. Lists. To do lists.

When we bought our house 1 ½ years ago, there were few problems with the house.

However, I took the inspection room and made a list of everything the inspector said needed a little “work.”

I prioritized the list and started tackling projects.

No urgency about it at all.

Just made a list, then worked the list.

My mind easily wraps around lists and projects.

They give me a target to aim for. And, to accomplish.

I need targets. Without them, I get lost.

Pardon me. I’ve got more items to accomplish.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Uncertainty)

2011-11-17T06:32:00.000-06:00

I’m thankful for uncertain things.

Probably sounds weird to some.

However, I’m not a big fan of “sameness.”

No, I’m not ADD or ADHD or any of the other AD words.

Yet, I find that I get bored with doing the same thing every day.

I guess that’s why I don’t work on an assembly line in a factory. Or, do any number of jobs that involve the same tasks each day.

I think I’ll literally die from the sameness.

Nothing wrong with those jobs. They just aren’t for me.

So, I’ll stick with the unknown.

Long live the uncertain.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Sight)

2011-11-16T06:32:00.000-06:00

I’m thankful for sight!

Seeing a new day.

Seeing the full moon. Half moon. Quarter moon. It doesn’t matter.

Seeing leaves turn orange, yellow, red. Watching as they fall to the ground.

Watching a rose bush begin to bud and bloom.

I love seeing a dog wag its tail. Or roll on its belly for a good rubbing.

I love seeing an open hand being offered to a person in need.

I love seeing the smile on my son’s face when I get him out of bed or when I kiss him goodnight.

I love seeing my wife smile. Anytime.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Memories)

2011-11-15T07:09:00.003-06:00

I’m thankful for memories.

I’m thankful for the childhood memory of building forts in the woods and playing army.

I’m thankful for the teenage memory of having a paper route at 4:00 AM, delivering the Montgomery Advertiser in the rain, sleet, snow, but mostly the darkness.

I’m thankful for the memory of pastoring in Alabama, Mississippi, and Virginia. Oh the stories I could tell about those days and the people I’ve meet over the years.

I’m thankful for a job where I can continue serving the Lord.

I’m thankful for friends who read my blog.

And, I’m thankful for you!

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Time Change)

2011-11-14T06:32:00.000-06:00

Time change.

We’ve been in this “new time” for a week.

Funny how we complain about “losing” or “gaining” an hour. Unless you live in a few places, where they don’t participate in the time change, you’ve been adjusting your body to the new time.

I’m thankful for the time change.

Around our house, the day starts at oh-dark-thirty. Well, actually, 5:15 AM. Too often, we leave home before daylight.

Then, coming home, the sun is glaring in my eyes.

Now, we head out in the light! And, come home with the sun setting.

I’m thankful for the time change.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Freedom)

2011-11-13T07:00:00.001-06:00

I’m thankful for freedom.

The freedom I enjoy was given to me.

I’ve done nothing to deserve it or receive it.

Men and women, in uniform, have paid the price for my freedom.

Others died. Sacrificed. Given so much.

All so our nation could be free.

So that people could occupy Wall Street. March on the White House. Vote. Or, stay home on election day.

Strange how freedom works like that, isn’t it?

In the United States we aren’t required to do much.

We are free to choose.

We are also free to give so that others may be free.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Health)

2011-11-12T13:25:00.000-06:00

Today, I’m thankful for health.

After a few days watching my son suffer through a stomach
virus, I’m thankful that his health is returning to him.

We are so blessed that Evan is healthy.

At the doctor’s office yesterday, the nurse went down the
list: allergies, long-term health issues, any reoccurring problems. Thankfully,
the answers were no, no, and no.

This week reminded me again that watching my child suffer is
the worse experience possible.

At any step, I’d take Evan’s sickness upon myself.

I’d spare him of any pain.

Unfortunately, I can’t.

I’ll just love him through whatever comes.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Veterans)

2011-11-11T05:50:00.000-06:00

I’m thankful for veterans.

Women and men who served our country.

Protecting freedoms.

Guarding our shores.

Following the orders of the Commander-in-Chief.

They seldom questioned orders. They simply did as they were
told. Boldly. Bravely. Unapologetically.

I grew up in an era where serving in the military wasn’t popular. Wars had taken a toll on the American public. Those wars caused Americans to
even turn against our soldiers. Jeering them instead of cheering.

Those soldiers came home from war, not as heroes, but as villains.

May that never be the case again!

May we honor all who serve our nation.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Priorities)

2011-11-10T08:15:00.000-06:00

Today, I’m thankful for priorities.

Confession time. I haven’t always been good at setting priorities. Many times over the years, I’ve put less important things first.

You know. Things like work.

Friends.

Church.

I put demands ahead of importance.

Honestly, I still struggle with knowing what’s most important. But, I’m better at it.

It’s amazing how many people don’t want you to put the right things first. Those people pull at you to choose what’s important to them. They want their priority to be yours.

Well friends. Set your own priorities.

Then, know I’ll be doing the same for myself.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (George Hinson)

2011-11-09T06:30:00.001-06:00

Today, I’m thankful for George Hinson.

Do you know George?

Probably not. After all, he died in 2007. At the age of 104.

But, I promise you, you know something George did.

George Hinson invented the twist tie. At the age of 20.

You know that little tie that is used to close your bread to keep the air out?

Yes, that little tie.

George Hinson isn’t a household name. I get that.

But, his invention is in probably every home in America!

I’m thankful for inventors! For those men and women who use their skills to improve our life.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Tuesday)

2011-11-08T06:30:00.000-06:00

Tuesday.

I’m thankful today is Tuesday.

Yesterday was catch up day from the weekend: emails, phone calls, mail.

Oh, and there were the meetings.

Today, only 1 ½ hours of meetings. The remainder of the day I get to focus on manuscripts.

I get to read today.

I realize for most people reading doesn’t sound like work.

If you are reading for pleasure, it isn’t. However, as an editor, my reading is for work. It is detailed work.

Spelling. Grammar. Context. Theology.

Can’t miss a thing.

While challenging, work reading is good. And important.

Hello Tuesday! I’m thankful you’re here!

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Mondays)

2011-11-07T07:17:00.002-06:00

Mondays.

For some people, it seems wrong to be thankful for Mondays.

Almost stupid.

But, today, I’m thankful for Mondays.

I did say today.

I don’t know I can always say that I’m thankful for Mondays.

After the weekend with family. Doing what I want to do. Enjoying some down time. Experiencing only the stress that comes from being a husband and dad.

But, today, I’m thankful for the start of a new week.

A new week of opportunities. A new week of meeting new people. A week of experiencing new things.

Newness. That’s why I am thankful for Mondays.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Weekends)

2011-11-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Today, I’m thankful for weekends.

I wouldn’t go as far as saying that I work for weekends.

But, that wouldn’t be far from the truth.

For years, weekends were just another part of the week. I found myself working Saturdays and Sundays.

Seven working days a week make for long weeks.

I learned (the hard way) that plan really isn’t a good one. No matter who you are. Or, how important the work you are doing.

We need a little down time.

God knew that from the beginning. That’s why He instructed us to rest.

I’ll honor His instructions today!

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (No Dreams)

2011-11-04T06:30:00.000-05:00

Today, I’m thankful for not having dreams.

Yes, I worded that correctly. No dreams.

Over the last few weeks, due to a case of poison oak and then “almost” having strep, I’ve been on a couple new medicines.

Apparently, I don’t handle new medicines well. Not in the least.

Especially at night.

When I should be sleeping.

You know that time of replenishing your body, relaxing, rest.

Yes, those times. The rest that has alluded me for nearly a month now.

All due to dreams. Vivid ones. Frightening ones. Never-ending dreams.

The meds are finished.

So maybe are the dreams.

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Humor)

2011-11-03T06:30:00.001-05:00

I’m thankful for humor.

Good humor. Bad humor. Any humor.

Humor makes the day more enjoyable.

It seems some people have lost the ability to have a sense of humor. They rarely laugh. They rarely are in a good mood.

And, often, they resent anyone else having a sense of humor.

I figure that if having a sense of humor was important to Jesus, it should be important to me.

It was Jesus who talked about a log in your eye compared to the speck of sawdust in another’s eye.

I know Jesus laughed.

I want to laugh more too.

Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Mrs. Askew)

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Typing.

As an editor, I spend more time each day sitting at my computer than I anywhere else (attending meetings would be a close second).

I type and read for a living.

Sounds romantic. Reading for a living. Until you see how much.

The same with typing.

Typing isn’t rocket science. I rarely break a sweat doing it. Truth be told, I don’t even think about the keys I’m hitting. It just comes naturally at this point.

Today, I’m thankful for Mrs. Askew, my high school typing teacher.

At times, she drove me nuts!

But, she knew how to motivate!

A Month of Thanksgiving--100 Words (Leaves)

2011-11-01T08:26:00.003-05:00

Leaves.

As November begins and attention turns toward thanksgiving and being thankful, I want to share with you a few things for which I am most thankful.

As I drove into work this morning I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful red, yellow, and orange colored leaves dotting the hillside and yards.

I love this time of year! I love the changing seasons and cooler weather.

I love the changing and falling leaves.

I love Fall, I guess my favorite season next to Spring.

So, bring on the leaves. I’ll gladly mulch, mow, and even rake.

I’m thankful for leaves.

Pressure Washer--100 Words

2011-10-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Pressure washer.

I need to pressure wash my driveway, patio, and vinyl siding on our home.

Do you know about pressure washers?

A pressure washer is a mechanical sprayer that, depending on nozzle size, can be used as a low volume high-pressure water cleaner or a high volume low-pressure cleaner.

A pressure washer cleans what an ordinary water hose can’t.

And, from experience, it’ll even knock the skin off a finger. Or two.

There are days that I head home feeling as if I’ve been hit once or twice by a pressure washer.

Clean? Yes. However, the skin is gone.

Civil War--100 Words

2011-10-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

In the 1860s, our nation suffered a civil war. Ironic name, don’t you think? Not much civil about southerners and northerners killing each other. Cousins fighting cousins. Brothers on opposite sides of the war.

Come to think of it, are wars ever civil? No.

Yet, citizens in our nation took up weapons and killed other citizens.

Could we get to that point again?

I think as I drive. The other day I noticed the people around me. Could one of them kill me? Could I kill them? All because we disagreed?

Don’t say it couldn’t happen here. It did once.

Snuggle Time--100 Words

2011-10-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Morning comes early at our house.

5:15 AM.

At 5:30 AM, I wake Evan, if he’s not already awake.

He’s so snuggly in the mornings.

When I come to his bedside, he grabs his favorite blanket and falls into my arms.

Feeling his head nestle against my shoulder is one of the greatest feelings in the world.

He’s normally happy in the morning, smiling and talking. Oh, the talking.

I know, soon enough, he’ll want to sleep until noon. He won’t talk. And certainly won’t nestle his head against my shoulder.

I’ll enjoy it for as long as I can.

Death's Timing--100 Words

2011-10-03T07:19:00.002-05:00

Death’s timing.

Is it ever good?

An infant dies in her sleep.

A teenager drowns while at the beach with friends.

A young adult develops breast cancer and the battle is lost quickly.

A man retires. Within the year, he dies from suicide.

A 95-year-old has a side effect to a new prescription, poisoning the blood. She dies in the hospital.

Reports of those deaths are written about every day in our world.

The newspaper is filled with obituaries.

Unless it is someone close to us we seldom pay attention.

Death’s timing may not be good. But, it is certain.

Finding Happiness--100 Words

2011-09-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

Where do you find happiness? Real happiness?

When I was young, I found happiness in my career. I found satisfaction in what I was doing, what I felt called to do.

At times, I thought happiness came from what I owned. Or drove. Or wore. Or who I knew.

There have been times that seeing my name in lights brought happiness.

But now, I realize how finite those things are. They quickly pass. Like the morning fog or dew. Or, life itself.

Happiness is found in who I am in God. Happiness isn’t things. It’s loving God. And, loving myself.

Value--100 Words

2011-09-29T07:23:00.003-05:00

Maybe it comes with age.

Maybe it comes with experience.

Or, a combination of both.

At some point, you must stop caring as much what others think.

As a child/teenager, I struggled with self esteem. I never saw much value in myself.

If I’m going to be totally honest, I still struggle with that.

There’s a part of me that wants to please others. To put their opinion of me ahead of the opinion I have of myself.

I have to overcome that!

I must stop sacrificing the person I am only to be what others expect me to be.

Joy Comes in the Morning--100 Words

2011-09-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

Joy comes in the morning.

Don’t believe me?

It’s right there in the Bible: “For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favor is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” (Psalm 30:5 KJV).

Has to be true, right? It’s in the Bible! In the king’s own English!

The Gaithers sing about it. Choirs across America sing about it. Even Jimmy Swaggart sings about it.

It must be true!

Unless you aren’t joyful. Then, you find yourself asking, “Which morning?”

Hold on. Today may be anything but joyful!

God. Return our joy. Please!

Uncertainty--100 Words

2011-09-27T08:28:00.003-05:00

Do you struggle with uncertainty?

Uncertainty about your health?

About your job?

In your marriage?

With raising your children?

We all do.

Uncertainty is like a roller coaster or waves at the beach.

Life is going fine. Calm. Still. Nothing on the horizon to freak me out.

Then, almost out of nowhere, life’s roller coaster drops 100 feet, banks hard left, and then right. I feel unprepared.

Or, the waves crashing over my head, nearly drowning me.

The key to overcoming uncertainty isn’t found in the sudden drop or crashing wave. It’s preparing ahead of time that makes the difference.

Commodity--100 Words

2011-09-26T12:51:00.003-05:00

I grew up in a lower middle class family. What we were, and I didn’t know it, was poor. We raised our own vegetables. We canned tomatoes, green beans, fig preserves, and pickles. We froze everything else.

My dad had a side job of cutting meat for farmers. Instead of getting paid in cash, they gave him cuts of meat.

We were poor, but not poor enough to receive commodities. You remember those? Peanut butter? Cheese? All of which came from the USDA.

But, on rare occasions, someone would give my parents commodity cheese. We ate good on those nights!

Terrible--100 Words

2011-09-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

Terrible.

That word is used too much in the English language.

A terrible human being. A terrible father. A terrible husband. A terrible employee. A terrible friend. A terrible driver.

On and on that list often goes.

Do you ever get to the point where you just raise your hands toward the heavens and scream at the top of your lungs, “Am I ever not terrible?”

Sticks and stones may break our bones, but words do internal damage! Words leave permanent scars. Far deeper ones than physical wounds.

Can’t resist pointing out someone else’s terribleness?

Look first in your mirror.

To--100 Words

2011-09-20T09:49:00.002-05:00

To.

Simple word.

But, filled with so much meaning and interpretation.

As young children, we often received a “talking to” from parents, peers, teachers, even church leaders.

As teenagers, we were “talked down to” by bullies. Or peers.

As adults, we are sent “to” HR for a reprimand. We are “talked to” as if we are 12-years-old.

I’m not a huge Rihanna but she does have a song lyric that I like: “Don’t talk to me like I’m stupid.”

I’m a person. Treat me with respect.

I’m a man. Treat me as such.

Either that or just leave me alone.

9/11--100 Words

2011-09-08T06:56:00.003-05:00

9/11.

Where were you that September morn?

I was pastoring in Alabama. I was also a volunteer fireman.

Within 30 minutes of the planes hitting the towers, our fire department was activated. Even though we were nearly 1,000 miles away.

Not for service in New York or DC or even in a Pennsylvania field.

We were activated to serve our community. All flights had been grounded. One plane was unaccounted for. They feared it might be highjacked.

We were to be ready for a crash.

I’ll never forget that day.

In so many ways, it changed my life and future.

Withdrawing--100 Words

2011-09-06T12:19:00.001-05:00

Withdrawing.

I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: the English language is weird. Sometimes. Most of the time.

It is amazing to me how so many English words have double meaning. On one hand positive. On the other hand, negative.

Take withdrawing, for example.

If a person is withdrawing to reflect, we commend them and wish we could withdraw as well.

On the other hand, if a person is withdrawing to hide or runaway from life, we worry and encourage them to rejoin life.

I often need to withdraw.

I’ll let you decide whether that is positive or negative.

Distance--100 Words

2011-08-31T07:33:00.002-05:00

Distance.

You would think that measuring distance would be easy.

If A to B is 100 miles, then B to A should equal the same 100 miles.

I’m not great at math, but that seems logical.

However, when it comes to relationships, distance isn’t measured with logic.

In many relationships one person seems tasked with the responsibility of keeping the relationship going.

They make the phone calls. The visits. Write the emails. Texts.

The other person seems to be on the receiving end, rarely giving in return.

In truth, one person can’t sustain a relationship alone. It does take two.

Birthdays--100 Words

2011-08-24T09:17:00.001-05:00

Birthdays.

Funny thing about birthdays.

As children, it seems as if 4 or 5 years come and go before the next birthday.

As we reach 30, the birthdays come 4 or 5 at a time. Before we know it, age has slipped up on us, and we realize we have more birthdays behind us than we do in front of us.

I’ve never dreaded birthdays. At the same time, not sure I like birthdays.

It’s weird to only celebrate birth and life one day a year.

Seems to me every day should be a celebration day!

So, here’s happy-celebration-of-your-life day!

Dropping--100 Words

2011-08-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

Dropping.

On New Year’s Eve they drop a crystal ball in New York City.

In Atlanta, they drop a peach.

A wide receiver drops a pass. Cell phones drop calls. The temperature drops (not in Alabama, but in other places it does).

Dropping things is a way of life. Dropping a bad habit is good. A drop in the Dow is bad.

I hate when I “drop the ball.”

I’m responsible for something, and I forget. I miss an appointment.

Drives me crazy when I do that!

The more stressed I get, the more I drop.

Can I drop stress?

Reward--100 Words

2011-08-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Reward.

The English language is quite humorous in how we use the same word to mean so many different things.

Take the word “reward” for example. A reward can be something given in return for what someone has done.

A reward can be money offered in return for information.

Or, a reward can be a benefit obtained as result of an action taken.

So, when someone says, “I hope you get the reward that is coming to you!” that can be a good thing. Or, a bad thing. Right?

Just checking. Not that anyone has said that to me, lately.

Disappointment--100 Words

2011-08-22T10:47:00.001-05:00

Disappointment.

Do you ever struggle with disappointment?

I do.

I struggle most with disappointment when I’ve put too much trust in someone.

Someone will probably say, “That’s the problem. You shouldn’t put your trust in people. Put your trust in God.”

I do. But, wouldn’t it be a sad world if I also didn’t trust people?

While God never fails, people certainly do. And people fail regularly.

And, depending upon the level of trust I’ve put in them, that determines the amount of pain their failure causes.

I’m not alone in struggling with disappointment.

And, dear friend, neither are you.

Late--100 Words

2011-08-18T08:02:00.001-05:00

Late.

Late can be positive or negative.

Ask a couple which is it when the wife announces “I’m late.”

Late is positive if your plane is late arriving when you are in traffic and can’t get to the airport on time.

Late can be negative. The hospital calls and tells you to come quickly. The traffic jam causes you to be late. For the death. Birth.

Some people are chronically late. Doesn’t seem to bother them. They function that way all the time.

Unfortunately, their lateness becomes your crisis as they rush to pull it together.

I scream: “Not fair!”

Organization--100 Words

2011-08-17T08:45:00.001-05:00

Organization.

I’m an organization nut.

Everything has a place.

I’m that way with my tools. I like my wrenches and screw drivers to be lined up—smallest to largest.

I’m that way with my shirts—summer shirts go together, winter shirts go together—and never the twain shall meet.

I’m also that way with work.

I want my desk to be clean. I want to know where my files are, both on the computer and in the cabinet.

I’m a nut. Or, freak. Depends on how organized you are, I suppose.

And yes, unorganized people drive me over the edge.

Struggling--100 Words

2011-08-16T07:34:00.002-05:00

Struggling.

I wonder, as I come to work each morning, if the person in the car beside me is struggling. Better yet, not if, but with what.

I wonder if the person sitting in the cubicle next to me has a medical issue, family crisis, spiritual question, or just is uncertain about the direction their life is going.

Then, there’s the person at the grocery store or the gas station.

Secret struggles. Secret hurts. Secret questions.

Embarrassed to express them.

Uncertain of what to do next.

As you look my way, know I am struggling too.

Should I admit that?

Flux--100 Words

2011-08-11T08:45:00.002-05:00

Flux.

You can be in flux.

You can apply flux. For example, when a joint is being soldered.

The dictionary defines flux as “constant change.” Another definition is “instability.”

Heraclitus said that flux is the notion that change is the fundamental nature of reality.

I don’t dislike change. Actually, I find change good and exciting.

What I don’t like is the instability caused by other people.

You know what I mean. Right? You work on something for weeks only to have someone change everything at the last minute. Because they can.

That’s the part of flux that I don’t like.

Daddy--100 Words

2011-08-10T09:00:00.002-05:00

Daddy.

On days like today, I struggle being Daddy.

Evan did great going to daycare. He was happy. He danced into the building.

Then, as I started to leave, the tears and the “I love you Daddy” started. Evan held on tight. He didn’t want me to leave.

I felt worse than scum. Even though I stayed and held him. For fifteen minutes.

It wasn’t enough. For him or me.

My heart hurts when this happens. I simply want to stay and hold him. Reassure him.

I called to check on him. He’s fine.

Why is it that I’m not?

Environmentalist--100 Words

2011-08-09T08:16:00.000-05:00

Environmentalist.

In full disclosure, I’ve never been a radical environmentalist. I recycle at home and work. I believe the saying, “Waste not want not.”

At the age of 16, my summer job was working for the State of Alabama, picking up trash alongside the highway. (They now use prisoners for that!) It was surprising what people threw out their car window.

Last week at the beach, I was surprised how people trashed the beach. Cans. Toys. Paper. Wrappers. Broken chairs. You name it. People trashed the beach with it.

Folks. Didn’t your Momma teach you to pick up after yourself?

Delay--100 Words

2011-07-28T12:37:00.002-05:00

Delay.

I’ll admit it. I’m not very good with waiting.

Just about anyone who even somewhat knows me knows that!

I hate waiting in line at the grocery store. The bank. A restaurant. The airport. In traffic.

If I had to rejoin my church, I’d probably hate if I had to wait in line to talk with the pastor!

Some delays can’t be helped.

Others can be.

Especially those delays caused by others. And their lack of decision-making ability.

There can be reasons for delays. I get that. But, often, it’s nothing more than excuses.

Help me out.

Decide already!

Responsibility--100 Words

2011-07-25T09:53:00.003-05:00

Responsibility.

Responsibility can be given or taken.

I handle those with little problem. Most of us do.

Unfortunately, responsibility can be held in limbo as well. That’s when the struggle becomes great.

When clear lines of responsibility aren’t defined, confusion, uncertainty, and anxiety rule the day.

At that point, I don’t know which way to go. Or, what my role is.

Josiah Charles Stamp said, “It is easy to dodge our responsibilities, but we cannot dodge the consequences of dodging our responsibilities.”

If you are tasked with a responsibility, do it. It makes it easier on the rest of us.

Why Me?--100 Words

2010-10-14T07:28:00.002-05:00

When I’m having a difficult time, I often find myself asking an all too used question: “Why me?”

You know what I’m talking about, don’t you?

Cancer. Why me?

Loss of job. Why me?

Family issues. Why me?

Children rebelling. Why me?

The list goes on and on of the issues I could name and question why I have to endure them.

But, that question is the wrong question to ask.

Rather than asking “Why me?” shouldn’t I be asking “Why not me?”

What gives me any right to think that I should be exempt from the problems of life?

Just the Facts--100 Words

2010-10-13T06:32:00.000-05:00

The past few weeks have been difficult.

The death of a close friend.

An illness of a newborn I’ve been following.

Dealing with an 800-pound insurance company.

And then, yesterday, giving up something that I thoroughly loved.

All crushing to the spirit. I will admit.

Life reminds me of the sound an inflated balloon makes as you slowly release air from it.

That’s the sound of my spirit these days.

Oh, I’m not complaining. And, I’m not looking for sympathy.

Just stating the facts ma’am, as Sgt. Joe Friday would say.

Facts are fact. I don’t have to like them!

How Do You Like Me Now?

2010-10-12T06:32:00.000-05:00

Toby Keith’s song “How Do You Like Me Now?” comes to mind.

I love Keith’s sense of humor. Not taking himself too seriously. Laughing at emotions felt as a teenager. The rejection we’ve all experienced at some point in life. Who hasn’t wanted to ask a former crush or bully or even friend “how do you like me now?”

I wonder. If people who knew me “then” could see me now, how would they like me now?

Oh, I’m not rich. I’m not famous. I’m not tall. I don’t have great hair. I’m just me.

So, asking someone how they like me now doesn’t mean physical or financial or status.

The only thing that really makes me special is my relationship with Jesus Christ. He gets all credit for the changes in me. He’s turned me around. He’s made me into the person I am now.

Looking back, you probably wouldn’t have liked the person I was. I didn’t.

But, the past is the past. Now, I’m His.

It’s because of Him that I am who I am today.

How do you like me now? I hope you like me. That’s only human, I suppose.

But, I hope you like the Savior I try to follow even more. He’s the One you need to like.

How do you like HIM now?

My Anniversary

2010-10-11T06:32:00.001-05:00

Today, is my anniversary.

Not the normal kind of anniversary celebration.

Normally, you celebrate anniversaries of marriage. Or a child being born. Or even moving day.

Today is none of those.

Two years ago today, at 1:30 PM (Central Time), I had a heart attack.

You can read about the experience here, here, here, here, and here.

I've re-read these blog posts today. Not that I've forgotten a moment of those days. But, to remind me just how blessed I am.

I'm thankful to be alive. I'm thankful to be in good health.

I'm glad to have you as a friend!

Moron--100 Words

2010-09-15T07:47:00.002-05:00

Moron.

We all do moronic things.

Be honest. We do.

And, when we do, we only hope no one’s watching.

It’s like the person who picks his/her nose while driving—as if no one can see inside their car.

Or, what about the person who writes a handwritten letter (yes, they still exist) and at the bottom of the page, writes OVER so the person knows to read what’s written on the back! Why do we do that? Would we think they wouldn’t know to read what’s on the back?

I’m sometimes a moron. Just don’t treat me that way.

Playing Nice--100 Words

2010-09-14T07:23:00.003-05:00

Playing nice.

From the time we were little, our parents constantly reminded us to play nice.

Play nice on the playground. Play nice at church. Play nice at school. Play nice with your siblings.

Playing nice.

Sadly, as we grow older, we often forget our parent’s admonition about playing nice.

We lose that sense of decency. The common caring about another person.

We strive to get ahead. It’s all about climbing up the ladder. It’s about us—not others.

Maybe it is our sense of competition. Maybe that’s what is expected of us.

Well. No more.

Jesus first. Others second.

Fellowship--100 Words

2010-09-13T06:00:00.001-05:00

Fellowship.

A churchy word.

But, to put it in secular terminology, let’s use the word friendship.

Aren’t we all seeking friendship or fellowship?

Maybe so. Well, I suppose there are those hermits hiding out deep in the woods of Montana that may not be seeking friendship. And, quite honestly, there are days that I’d like nothing better than hiding from everyone and everything. Yes, solitude intrigues me at times.

But, not every day. Most days I want to be with people. To find relationship.

I suppose that’s why Facebook interests me so much.

I can be friends, fellowship, or hide.

Boxes--100 Words

2010-08-21T06:00:00.002-05:00

Boxes.

Since April, life has revolved around boxes.

It was in April that we listed our house for sale. We boxed us “unnecessary” things so the house would show better.

Four days later, we had our first offer on the house. More boxes were filled as we prepared for the sale to be finalized.

That deal fell through, a week before closing.

We unpacked a few boxes to help the house show better a second time.

Then, house sold again. For good.

Boxes, boxes, boxes, everywhere.

Now, they are being moved.

Only to be unpacked.

And thrown away. Or burned.

Closing Day--100 Words

2010-08-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Closing day.

If you are reading this, then today is closing day on the houses we are selling and buying.

This has been a journey.

A LONG JOURNEY.

I know. I’ve been quick to complain about this journey.

But, I have to stop and realize I put myself through it.

No one put a gun to my head and said, “Sell and buy!”

I caused this.

What I didn’t do is cause all of the starts and stops along the way. Those came because of the mistakes of others.

Hopefully, at 3:00 PM, the end of the journey arrives.

Amen!

Aging--100 Words

2010-08-19T06:00:00.002-05:00

Aging.

No fun in that word.

Joints hurt. Memory shortens. Hair falls out. Teeth let loose. Medicine list gets longer.

I’ve heard people say this about birthdays (implying it relates to aging): “Well, beats the alternative.”

As if dying is all bad.

But, is dying worse than aging?

Not always.

Who among would choose aging over death if it meant Alzheimer’s was our constant companion.

Who would choose aging over death if it meant enduring the ravages of cancer.

Have we forgotten Paul’s words: “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Dying isn’t always bad.

Having Fun--100 Words

2010-08-17T06:55:00.002-05:00

Having fun.

Cyndi Lauper sang about girls wanting to have fun.

Eagle Eye Cherry posed the question, “Are you still having fun?”

How much fun do we have?

Oh, I know. Life is serious.

There’s unemployment. Cancer. Divorce. Human trafficking. Death. Suffering.

I get it. I, too, have experienced some of those life events.

Who hasn’t known their share of seriousness?

But, laughter is good for us.

I have a choice. I can wait for trouble to find me.

Or, I can celebrate every day given to me by God and then trust Him with troubles come.

It’s my choice.

Christ Follower--100 Words

2010-08-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

I’m a Christ follower.

Simply put, I believe in and follow Jesus Christ.

I’ve given my life to Him. He is my Redeemer. Savior. Lord. And, Friend.

I love Him. And, I know He loves me.

Yet, I am not perfect.

I am not even good many times.

I’m a sinner.

I fail miserably. I fall short of His plan.

I could excuse it on being human. Or, not always understanding His Word or plan for my life.

I could do that. But, why lie.

Mostly, when I fail, it’s my own choosing.

Lord, forgive my stumbles and weak ways.

Being A Dad--100 Words

2010-08-13T09:40:00.001-05:00

Being a dad.

There are so many special things in life.

Becoming a Christ follower ranks number one.

Getting married is special and ranks a close second.

But, becoming a dad, is almost beyond words.

Watching a child grow. Watching a child’s face change every day. Listening as they grunt, mumble, and speak.

Listening as words become sentences.

Then, there’s crawling. Walking. Then running.

But, of all the things a child does, it’s hard to beat seeing a child reach up his or her hand, placing it into your hand, and then smiling from ear-to-ear.

I love being a dad.

Quiet--100 Words

2010-08-12T08:09:00.003-05:00

Quiet.

I’m rarely accused of being quiet.

Normally, I’m rather loud.

I have one of those voices that carries across the room.

Me? Whisper? Don’t have it in me.

But, this week, I’ve found myself needing to be quiet.

With all that has taken place related to the sale of our home, and the rug being pulled out from under us at the last minute, words just haven’t come easily.

Or, at all.

So, I’ve been quiet. I’ve spent the week trying to listen for a change.

And, as with being terrible at being quiet, I’m even worse at listening.

Punch to the Gut--100 Words

2010-08-10T06:00:00.001-05:00

What’s worse than depressed?

I guess, in some ways, that would be suicidal.

Okay. What’s only slightly worse than depressed?

Discouraged? Frustrated?

It’s that kind of “punch to the stomach” feeling.

Ever experienced that?

Well, lately, that feeling has become my constant companion.

Not a liked companion. Not desired.

I’m sick and tired of it.

I’m sure I can take more. But, if I have a choice, I’d rather not.

Oh, my troubles are small. Children are starving to death around the world. Wars are being fought. Soldiers are dying.

I need to grow up. And get over my discouragement.

Working Hard--Point of View--100 Words

2010-08-09T12:55:00.003-05:00

What’s your POV of working hard?

It seems that not everyone has the same work ethic that I was taught.

I guess I was taught it. Or, was it drilled into my brain?

Either way, working hard to provide for myself and my family was instilled into my psyche.

Some don’t have that mindset.

At least it seems that way from observing them.

Is that unfair? Is that being judgmental on my part?

It probably is unfair. I don’t know what’s going on in their mind or body.

Maybe they just approach life differently from me.

Nothing wrong with that.

Point of View--God (Part 5)--100 Words

2010-08-06T06:00:00.001-05:00

Point of view (POV).

What’s your POV of God?

We all have one.

Even those who deny His existence.

So, what do you believe about God?

For me, that POV changes.

Frequently.

Sometimes daily.

No. it’s not what you may be thinking.

My POV of God doesn’t change as I want Him to change.

In that sense, God is unchangeable. He is an immovable heavenly being.

My POV changes as I learn more about God.

As I study His Word.

As I pray.

Hopefully, I know more about God today than yesterday, but not as much as I will tomorrow.

Point of View--God (Part 4)--100 Words

2010-08-05T06:00:00.001-05:00

Point of view (POV).

What’s your POV of God?

I struggle knowing God.

After all, I can’t see Him.

I can’t touch Him.

I can’t hear Him.

I can’t smell Him.

Things that normally makes things real. God is none of those things.

There are moments that I am troubled by that.

Truthfully, there are plenty of things I can’t explain about God.

Then again, I can’t explain how an airplane flies. Or, how toothpaste gets into that little tube. Or, how sound waves can find my cell phone.

I still fly, brush, and talk.

I still believe in God.

Point of View--God (Part 3)--100 Words

2010-08-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

Point of view (POV).

What’s your POV of God?

I know the one I should have.

Or, have been told that I should have.

I was in church nine months before I was born. I’ve heard it for a LONG time!

But, have I listened to Him?

Have I really understood Him?

Or, have I only understood what others have told me about Him?

There’s a huge difference there.

I’m at the point in life where I don’t need people telling me what to believe.

I’m smart enough to listen, study, and evaluate for myself.

With God, that takes time.

Point of View (Part 2)--God--100 Words

2010-08-03T06:00:00.001-05:00

Point of view (POV).

What’s your POV of God?

You’ve heard of Him, I’m sure.

The One mentioned in the Old Testament, and New.

The One Who has billboards with catchy sayings on them.

The One written about by preachers, theologians, scientists, and even a few atheists.

That one.

Earlier in life, I saw Him as a policeman—just waiting for me to fall so He could send me off to hell.

Later, I saw Him as distant—where was He when I needed Him most?

Most days, I see Him as creator.

Lover of my soul.

Eternally present.

Friend.

Point of View (Part 1)--100 Words

2010-08-02T07:50:00.002-05:00

Point of view (POV).

Everyone has one.

A designer has a point of view, whether contemporary, traditional, classical.

A chef has one. It may be baking, vegetarian, southern, gluten free, whole food, ethnic.

What’s your POV?

About life.

About your job.

About your family.

About your future.

You have one.

Have you taken time to understand it. Explain it. Accept it.

Later this month, I have a birthday. As it approaches, I think it’s important to evaluate my point of view—about several things.

Take the journey with me if you will.

If not, that’s okay too.

First up—God.

Focus--100 Words

2010-07-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Focus.

We know the importance of focus.

What teenager hasn’t heard their parent remind them to focus on school, or driving.

What employee doesn’t know that focusing on their job is essential for continued employment.

Yet, focus often eludes us.

It eludes us as we drive—leading to major accidents.

It eludes us as we work. We spend time talking. Gossiping. Texting. Even Facebooking.

It eludes us as we pray. We get distracted. We find ourselves thinking about important things and stupid things.

Why the lack of focus? Why can’t we be single-minded?

No magical answers.

Just random, unfocused thoughts.

Small Towns--100 Words

2010-07-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

Small towns.

Small towns usually get a terrible rap.

Few services. Slow when they have services. Many miles from “civilization.”

All of those statements may be true.

Until someone comes along and surprises you with kindness.

Today, I needed some papers faxed. It wasn’t convenient to drive the paperwork to my mortgage person.

A fax was the logical choice.

Several calls to area businesses. No one could fax. Not WalMart. Not Walgreens.

Finally, Snider Pharmacy came through. One man shop. Probably struggling to stay in business.

Offered to fax at no charge!

The wonder of small towns. And, nice people.

Straight Lines--100 Words

2010-07-20T08:36:00.003-05:00

[While I wish I could claim ownership of the yard in the photo, alas, it's not our yard. Maybe our new home will look this good!]

Straight lines.

I cut grass today.

I enjoy doing that.

I enjoy cutting the grass in straight lines.

It looks organized. It looks clean. It looks as it should.

How I wish all of life could be measured in straight lines.

You know. The shortest distance between two points.

In relationship to my career, every decision would be clear and the direction would be easily recognized.

In relationship to family, we’d know exactly what each other needed and then tackle it head-on.

Yet, life doesn’t come to us in straight lines.

Normally, it comes like dodging flowers.

And, dog poop.

Control--100 Words

2010-07-19T14:01:00.002-05:00

Control.

That word can be positive or negative.

When driving a car, you should always remain under control of the vehicle.

On the other hand, in a marriage, it’s not about control, it’s about sharing, and giving.

Too many teenagers feel controlled by their parents.

How many people in their job feel totally controlled by their supervisor or boss?

When we are controlled by others, do we see it as positive or as debilitating?

I know the answer. So do you.

So, why is it that I need to control? What about the pain it causes that I don’t understand?

In Charge--100 Words

2010-07-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

In charge.

Who’s in charge?

At your house? With your family? In your job? In your church?

Who’s the boss?

Who gives the orders?

Who does the following?

Is being in charge what it’s all about? Control?

I know people who think they have to be in control.

Of everything.

Seriously. Everything.

From where to eat. To what others do. In big things, little things, and non-existent things.

It’s all about power.

Strange. The One person who had every right to be in charge, wrapped a towel around His waist and washed dirty feet.

Am I above doing the same?

Blindsided--100 Words

2010-07-15T07:15:00.001-05:00

Blindsided.

Ever been blindsided? Sure you have.

Hurts.

Stinks.

Unfair.

Painful.

I guess what hurts the most is that you just don’t see the sudden jar coming.

Ask Hall of Fame football quarterback Joe Theismann.

Ask the parent whose 15-year-old daughter just got pregnant.

Ask the 30-year-old father who has just been told he has six months to live.

Ask the 61-year-old employee who has just been “downsized.”

Ask the parent of the child whose name shows up on the roadside AMBER alert signs.

Blindsided.

Lord help us to deal with the blindsides. Give us Your strength. Wisdom. Grace. Mercy.

Deflating--100 Words

2010-07-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Deflating.

What’s worse, a major blowout or a slow deflating?

Both can be devastating.

With a major blowout, there’s a sudden change, a blowout or blowup. Quick response is required.

With a blowout, only a few seconds are involved, then it is done.

With a deflating, it’s slow. Steady. Hardly noticed. Just a hiss. Almost a whisper.

I’ve been hearing a lot of hissing for some time. Each hiss, alone, isn’t a problem.

But, when you add them all together, the hissing becomes a whirlwind.

I’m trying to understand. Where is God’s voice? I’m listening and waiting. Wanting to hear.

Self Absorbed--100 Words

2010-07-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

Self absorbed.

Americans are self absorbed.

Does that trouble you?

I hope so!

We are self absorbed.

Do you doubt me?

We give trophies to every player on every team our children are on. It doesn’t matter whether they are good or even win. They get a trophy.

Basketball players demand and receive a gazillion dollars to play a game.

There’s a fast food restaurant on every corner—we can’t be hungry for 5 minutes.

And, a church as well.

Wonder what starving children who have no basketballs or food or church think about America?

Do we even care anymore?

An Open Letter to Jesse--100 Words

2010-07-13T06:47:00.003-05:00

From one reverend to another.

Jesse, Jesse, Jesse.

Let me understand what you are saying.

LeBron James is a slave?

Dan Gilbert is a slaveholder?

The owner of a basketball team is treating an athlete like a runaway slave?

Are you kidding?

Jesse, I would agree if you had said that Mr. Gilbert’s open letter to LeBron was in bad taste or over the top. It was. He was.

But, a slaveholder?

Jesse, your only point was to put yourself back in the spotlight.

I doubt you care about LeBron.

Please. Stop calling yourself Reverend.

You haven’t served a church.

Praise--425 Words

2010-07-12T06:00:00.002-05:00

Praise.

Ken Thomas wrote a hymn at a time when the established church believed only Scripture should be sung as hymns—-with a special emphasis given to the Psalms. Some church leaders considered it sinful and blasphemous to write new lyrics for church music. It was almost like they were adding words to the Scriptures.

In that atmosphere, Ken wrote this and several other hymns for the boys at Winchester College, with strict instructions that they use them only in their rooms, for private devotions.

Today, we know the last stanza far better than the others. It may be the most frequently used piece of music in worship. Read the hymn from the beginning. Don’t skip ahead. And, as you come to the end, sing out in praise.

At Ken’s request, his hymn was sung at his funeral, fittingly held at sunrise.

“Awake, my soul, and with the sun
Thy daily stage of duty run;
Shake off dull sloth, and joyful rise,
To pay thy morning sacrifice.

“Thy precious time misspent, redeem,
Each present day thy last esteem,
Improve thy talent with due care;
For the great day thyself prepare.

“By influence of the Light divine
Let thy own light to others shine.
Reflect all Heaven’s propitious ways
In ardent love, and cheerful praise.

“In conversation be sincere;
Keep conscience as the noontide clear;
Think how all seeing God thy ways
And all thy secret thoughts surveys.

“Wake, and lift up thyself, my heart,
And with the angels bear thy part,
Who all night long unwearied sing
High praise to the eternal King.

“All praise to Thee, who safe has kept
And hast refreshed me while I slept
Grant, Lord, when I from death shall wake
I may of endless light partake.

“Heav’n is, dear Lord, where’er Thou art,
O never then from me depart;
For to my soul ’tis hell to be
But for one moment void of Thee.

“Lord, I my vows to Thee renew;
Disperse my sins as morning dew.
Guard my first springs of thought and will,
And with Thyself my spirit fill.

“Direct, control, suggest, this day,
All I design, or do, or say,
That all my powers, with all their might,
In Thy sole glory may unite.

“I would not wake nor rise again
And Heaven itself I would disdain,
Wert Thou not there to be enjoyed,
And I in hymns to be employed.

“Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.”

Puncture--100 Words

2010-07-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Puncture.

A couple of nights ago, something happened.

I found myself with two puncture marks on the top of my head (see above photo).

Here are the possibilities of how it happened:

1) A vampire from the Twilight saga snuck into our house and turned me into a vampire.

2) A rattlesnake bit me as I slept. (With the recent snake visit at our house, anything’s possible.

3) Evan, my two-year-old, while jumping on the couch, jumped at me, slipped, digging his front two teeth into my head, drawing blood, swelling, and pain.

If you are wondering, Evan is fine.

Meaning--100 Words

2010-07-08T06:00:00.002-05:00

Meaning.

We search for meaning.

We try to give meaning to how we live.

We hope meaning will be found in our testimony.

Yet, true meaning often alludes us.

Ernest Hemingway said, “Every man’s life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguish one man from another.”

Another way to say that is found on a tombstone: –.

Life’s meaning is determined by what happens on either side of the dash.

We are created the same.

We die the same.

It’s how we live that gives meaning to life.

Idiot-Proof--100 Words

2010-07-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

Idiot-proof.

Society has tried to idiot-proof just about everything.

Medicine has child-proof tops on it.

We’ve made tamper-resistant doors for our kitchen cabinets.

There are warning signs for just about everything known to mankind today.

We even have cars that can parallel park!

Yet, we can’t stop an idiot from getting behind the steering wheel of a car.

Yesterday, on my way to work, I was just about run over by a pickup truck. The driver, at the last second, swerved to miss my car as I sat at a red light.

I guess we can’t idiot-proof idiots, can we?

Anticipation--100 Words

2010-07-06T06:00:00.001-05:00

Anticipation.

Seneca said, “Expecting is the greatest impediment to living. In anticipation of tomorrow, it loses today.”

Countless times in life I have experienced anticipation.

The anticipation of being accepted to school.

The anticipation of entering the sanctuary to marry.

The anticipation of my child’s birth.

The anticipation of job changes. Health concerns. And yes, selling real estate.

All of those life events have caused anticipation, and to some degree, fear.

I wonder how many days I have lost living in wait or anticipation or fear.

How many days have been squandered. Needlessly.

Jesus said, “Fear not.”

I needed that.

America--100 Words

2010-07-04T08:47:00.003-05:00

America.

Land of my birth.

America and I share too much in common.

We both disrespect God regularly.

We both ignore the things of God.

We both would miss the freedom of worship, prayer, Bible study—if they were taken from us.

Yet, we seldom take advantage of freedoms afforded to us by God. The freedom fought for by men and women young and old who died for this nation.

I haven’t yet had to fight for our nation or freedom.

That day may come.

If it does, may I stand tall. And bold.

For the land of my birth.

Aspirations--100 Words

2010-07-01T07:58:00.003-05:00

Aspirations.

As children, we dreamt big.

Thoughts of being an astronaut or ballerina danced in our heads.

We wanted to be a third baseman or doctor or president. We saw no limit to what our future could be.

Huge dreams. Big plans.

But, somewhere along the way, those dreams faded.

Maybe they faded into reality.

Going to school, getting married, changing diapers, working for a paycheck.

Those things seem to win out more times than not.

Can’t we learn to balance dreams and reality? Does all of life have to be serious and responsible?

Or, can’t dreams still come true?

Shortcoming--100 Words

2010-06-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

Leigh Steinberg said: “Never underestimate the capacity of another human being to have exactly the same shortcomings you have.”

Is that true?

Do you believe it?

It’s difficult to believe that others have the same shortcomings as me.

I see my shortcomings up close and personal. I know them by name. I know when they are coming. I know when they’re leaving. I know them intimately.

But, when I see others, I rarely see their shortcomings. They hide them. They keep the veil over them.

Is that the way people see me?

Is it necessary to live behind a veil?

Spanking--100 Words

2010-06-29T08:13:00.003-05:00

Spanking.

The Old Testament says if we spare the rod, we spoil the child.

While no child likes to be spanked, no child needs to go without discipline.

Children know it—they know they need correction.

While they know that and they need it, they still don’t want it.

They want their way. In their time. And in whatever way they want it.

They despise correction.

But, who doesn’t? I’m far from being a child, but I still despise correction.

Even God’s correction. His “spankings” hurt as much as those my parents applied to my backside.

Yes, hurts. But, needed.

Heights--100 Words

2010-06-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

Heights.

Heights bother me.

Let me restate that. Heights terrify me.

I don’t like tall buildings. I don’t like tall rides at the amusement park. I don’t like dreaming about being high off the ground.

I especially don’t like to fly. I don’t like taking off. I don’t like landings. I especially don’t like bumps while in flight. Turbulence and crashing seem too closely related.

The only height I really tolerate well is climbing new heights for God’s kingdom.

Those challenge me. They push me to reach. They motivate me.

And, on yes, they scare the daylights out of me.

700--100 Words

2010-06-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

If you found yourself on Jeopardy and the question was: “700”, how would you answer.

If you’re smart, you might answer it is the sum of 4 consecutive primes (167+173+179+181).

You might say it’s a Harshad number. (A Harshad number is an integer that’s divisible by the sum of its digits.)

You might answer it’s the tints of color in the rainbow the human eye can distinguish.

If you are spiritual, you might say it’s a number used 5 times in the Bible.

But, if you’re really smart, you’d say it’s the number of blog posts written by Steve Heartsill!

One Short--100 Words

2010-06-24T06:00:00.001-05:00

One short.

Ever feel like you come up one short?

I grew up playing baseball. In those days, you couldn’t start playing until you were 5 or 6.

I’ll never forget batting against 10 year old pitchers! It wasn’t fair—for the 6-year-old batter, that is.

I often came up one short. If I were lucky, I’d bat 3 for 4 in the game. Still, I’d be one short of perfect.

I’ve often come up one short. At work. At home. As a father. As a friend.

Never a good feeling.

Not something to strive for.

In baseball.

Or life.

Ain't--100 Words

2010-06-23T06:00:00.002-05:00

Ain’t ain’t a word.

You know that, right?

But, in some ways, it’s the only word to use.

Nothing else will fit the sentence like ain’t.

Bill Cosby once said, “A word to the wise ain’t necessary, it’s the stupid ones who need the advice.”

See what I mean?

Try substituting the word “isn’t” in there. Just doesn’t carry the same impact.

Wonder if Jesus ever used the word ain’t?

Maybe He said, “There ain’t no other way to heaven…”

Or, “Ain’t I the way, the truth, and the life?”

No matter how you say it, ain’t it the truth!

Hot--100 Words

2010-06-22T06:00:00.001-05:00

Man. Has it been hot in Alabama lately.

While I don’t buy into the manmade global warming stuff, I do know summer has arrived in Alabama.

With it comes hot and humid days.

Notice. I didn’t say daytime.

It’s hot ALL day and night in Alabama in the summer.

That’s why I like cold weather.

In cold weather, you can put on layers of clothes. Just pile them on until you’re warm.

But, in summer, you can’t strip as naked as desired. At least not in public.

So. It’ll get cold again. Between January 10–12, 2011, it’ll be cold.

Veins--100 Words

2010-06-21T06:00:00.003-05:00

What runs through your veins?

I’ve heard some people have ice water in theirs.

The way some people drink coffee, tea, and soft drinks, they might have those running through them.

I take a blood thinner every day. I can safely say I have that running through my veins—and I want it to keep running!

Never really thought much about veins and arteries until after October 13, 2008—Heart Attack day at our house.

Veins became much more important that afternoon at 1:30 and shortly thereafter as a tube was sent looking through mine.

Protect what you can’t see!

Father's Day--100 Words

2010-06-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

Father’s Day.

Most important day of the year.

Just ask any father!

It is a time to reflect upon our own fathers.

And, the job they did. Or, the job they did on us.

It is also a time to reflect on our own years of being a father.

To learn lessons discovered the hard way.

There’s no textbook that comes with our children. No owner’s manual.

Basically, shortly after birth, the doctor bundles up the screaming little child and says, “This belongs to you now.”

Honestly, that was one of the most frightening days of my life!

Still is.

Writing--100 Words

2010-06-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

“Why do you write?”

I’m asked that question a lot. Maybe because I do a lot of writing.

That would seem logical, don’t you think?

So, why write?

After all, who reads things anymore?

In an age where everything is instantaneous, who has time to read someone’s rants, raves, reviews, or thoughts?

Well, here’s the kicker. I don’t write for you.

I write for me.

I write my thoughts. I don’t always think about your thoughts as I write.

These are things that cause my mind to race.

If they make you think along the way, that’s okay by me.

Fighting Fair--100 Words

2010-06-17T06:00:00.001-05:00

As an elementary-age child, I was a runt.

I was the shortest kid on the playground.

The last chosen when teams were decided.

I was skinny.

I was a runt.

Because of my size, I became an easy target to get picked on.

The bigger kids would push and shove and make fun of me.

I took it, fearing what they’d do if I didn’t.

Finally, when I could take no more, I’d fight back. What I lacked in size, I made up in determination.

Some people would do well to remember that I still have fight left in me.

Arrogance--100 Words

2010-06-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

Samuel Butler said: “The truest characters of ignorance are vanity, and pride and arrogance.”

Sadly, I think Mr. Butler was right.

We live in a vain world. It is certainly prideful.

Arrogance does seem to rule the day.

To some degree, maybe we are all arrogant at times. And prideful. And vain. An ignorant.

Not good characteristics to strive for. But, who really has to strive for them?

They seem to come so naturally.

God forgive such shameful behavior of those who claim to belong to You.

Open our eyes to see that our only value is found in You!

Real Estate--100 Words

2010-06-15T06:00:00.001-05:00

Real Estate.

Ever given much thought to it?

Just about the time I think I have real estate figured out, everything changes. And I do mean everything.

Our house was on the market 4 days. Then, we had a signed contract. Everything’s good.

USDA runs out of funds. Stalls the process of my purchaser. Everything’s bad.

USDA gets new funds. Back on track. Waiting two more weeks for word. Still waiting.

Now, we could lose the home we hope to purchase because of the delays.

I realize it could get worse. I do.

But, I’m tired of thinking about it.

Pick--100 Words

2010-06-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Pick.

On the schoolyard playground, I was often picked last when teams were chosen.

Didn’t matter the game. Kickball. Football. Baseball. Basketball.

Always last or next to last.

You see, I was small for my age. Short. Very thin.

But, my size didn’t reflect how fast I was.

But, speed mattered little on the playground.

It was always the tall kids chosen early.

They went first. They never knew the “thrill” of watching everyone else picked first.

I rarely think about being picked last.

As an adult looking back, I’m just thankful I was chosen at all.

I was included.

Totem Pole--100 Words

2010-06-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

Totem pole.

I often feel as if I don’t have a place on life’s totem pole.

What’s lower than being the lowest man on the totem pole?

Some days it feels as if I’ve fallen completely off the totem pole. And, honestly, I’m not always sure anyone notices.

“Suck it up” comes the reply.

“Get over it” is spoken.

Whether spoke in jest or seriously, what good do those words offer?

None that I can think of.

So, call it a pity party if you want.

Or, just call it honest.

I’m just trying to get back on the pole.

Crying--100 Words

2010-06-10T06:00:00.001-05:00

Crying.

Do you remember the TV show titled “Friends.”

It was quite popular in the 1990s.

In one episode, the conversation turns to crying. The “friends” are watching a movie. At the end of the movie, the girls and all but one guy are in tears.

Chandler isn’t crying. Chandler says he can’t cry. He hasn’t been able to cry since childhood.

Joey, one of the friends, says to Chandler that the reason he can’t cry is because “he’s dead inside.”

Does a lack of tears represent deadness?

I hope not.

I’m not a big crier either. Never have been.

Patience--100 Words

2010-06-09T06:00:00.001-05:00

Patience.

What a difficult concept.

At least for me. Maybe I’m the only one. I rather doubt it. But, still patience may be a virtue, but it’s not my virtue.

I don’t like waiting.

Not in the bank line.

Not at WalMart.

Not at a restaurant.

Not in traffic.

I do not like waiting. Not even at church.

I’m just not that patient.

Oh, I wish I were. I’ve longed for it. I’ve prayed for it. I’ve waited for it.

Still, patience is a struggle.

What’s your thought on patience?

Are you an expert? Novice? Or, have you given up?

Peace and Quiet--100 Words

2010-06-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Peace and quiet.

Almost two and one-half years ago, the Lord gave my wife and I a “little” surprise—Evan, our son.

Since that time, life hasn’t been the same.

The house is filled with screams and squeals.

Toys normally cover the floors.

We have endured skinned knees, teeth coming in, potty training, and even an eye being superglued shut.

I don’t think we would trade the last 2 ½ years for anything.

But, you might want to check back when he’s 16—when the squealing comes from tires leaving the driveway and the screams are to be left alone.

Respect--100 Words

2010-06-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

Respect.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T.

You remember the old song? Aretha sang about it. Maybe better than anyone else. She reminded us that all people are due respect. Honor. Dignity.

All people.

Everywhere.

The up-and-in. The down-and-out.

The gorgeous. The not-so-gorgeous.

Baseball pioneer and great Jackie Robinson said, “I’m not concerned with your liking or disliking me…All I ask is that you respect me as a human being.”

Why don’t you re-read what Jackie said.

I echo his words. That’s really all I ask from others.

You may or may not like me. That’s fine.

But, you can respect me as a person.

Inbox--100 Words

2010-06-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

Inbox.

I wonder when that word came into existence.

Must have been with the advent of email.

I have a love/hate relationship with my inbox.

My personality doesn’t allow me to keep my inbox full.

I know. It is terrible. But, I have to read, respond to, and file my emails quickly.

It’s a curse.

I can’t let them sit there. In bold. Unread. Waiting for action.

It is a sickness.

Recently, I sat next to a person who had 1,700-something unread emails in his inbox.

It was all I could do to keep from helping him clean it out!