Interesting...couldn't access it for months! Part 1
Previously, I couldn't access an online blog I posted on tagged. So, I left it alone, and just changed to a new blog area. For some reason, now I can access all the info again. Weird, eh?
Anyway, I figured I would post all the information I posted there, to here, so I have a copy of what was stated and when it was stated. Feel free to read any, or all of it, or none of it. Some of it might sound strange or bizarre. Don't worry, it sounded a bit strange to me too, at times, since I didn't understand how it all fit together (at least, at that time). Now, I think I understand more of it, but still not all. Nonetheless, thoughts are just that...thoughts! Sometimes they make a lot of sense, and sometimes they don't. So, take them for what they're worth...whatever that is!
Posts:
Meeting People
Wednesday, May 14, 2008 9:24:27 PM
I used to think that meeting people online was a good thing. However, I've noticed that many use this online medium as a way to advance themselves, or should I say 'catapult' themselves, into other's lives. Many tell tall tales of what 'they believe', simply because they can, and then they expect you to believe it, even if it sounds bogus. Most of them have said the lie so many times, that they truly believe them. However, when you question these things, they get annoyed with you. How dare you say what is the obvious.
I don't know about others, but if someone tells me something like they've died and gone to heaven, I want to know the reality of it, not just what they proclaim. I don't want a self-proclamation that appears to make it real...you know, it's just so, so you should take my word for it kind of thing. I don't need proof of God, but if someone said something to the effect of, I died...well, I don't know about others, but I want to know if a doctor said that or not. Wouldn't you? I'm the type to question things like that, because it's so easy for folks to make up things, now a days.
Likewise, if someone says that they're from another country, or even another state, you would figure they would know all about the place they come from, right? Yet, many who claim to be from here or there, don't even know their own language. Can you say B.S? Sad to say, though, I've found that most people are so busy telling lies to get others to open up to them, that when the person saying the lies doesn't even know where one lie starts and the other ends, well...I guess you can figure out from that point on that you shouldn't waste your time on them.
The problem I have, though, is that this happens so much online, that after awhile you start to wonder if there is even one person out there that doesn't believe in lying. I mean, come on people...others aren't dumb. People can actually tell when you're telling tall tales about yourself, and it's hardly becoming. Haven't any of you ever heard the saying, thou shalt not bear false witness?
I've seen this time and time again, on the internet...and to be honest, I'm tired of it! This new world we live in is so sad. It's easy to figure out who to trust and who you shouldn't, but a pain in the rump when you have to constantly keep one's eyes open. It appears that one always has to be on their guard, because there are so many that hope you will go against what you're taught...common sense!
You practically have to just assume that the person you're speaking with is probably telling tall tales, unless they can show that they aren't. It's a difficult way to live, though. It's like everyone wants to be one way, but clearly, it's all a falsehood, and it's just said to drag one into their lair of lies.
Oh well, it's time to go play a nice game of chess...with those who are real, and truly have my heart...my family. Take care all...and watch out for those who purport one thing, when reality stares you in the face. God be with you all!
angel
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De-Stressing
Tuesday, May 06, 2008 10:01:03 PM
While I was in church this weekend, they spoke of how important it is to de-stress from life's little ups and downs, by not putting so much emphasis on that which isn't important.
The sermon jumped around from story to story, making us laugh from time to time, about some of the things we all do during our day to day activities. The pastor spoke about simplifying our lives, because God didn't want us stressed out. Go figure!
I giggled when the pastor told us of how our cellphones are brought with us, even in the most unlikely places...such as bathrooms. He said, he had even heard people lie to the party on the other end of their cellphone, when it came to that all too familiar "flush", saying things like they were in a pool and someone just jumped in, or it was a vacuum starting in the hallway, hehe.
Yes, I suspect we all do silly things like that and I think he has a good point...that maybe we shouldn't stress as much as we do when it comes to smaller things that occur in life. Ok, those are things I've decided to "let go and just let god" handle. I agree!
However, I've also noted that when it comes to serious things, many don't take things serious enough. Now, sometimes there is nothing we can do about things, and maybe we shouldn't stress about those. Maybe we should learn to 'let go and let god handle them.'
But, on the other hand, some of us don't do anything at all, even though we can make some vast changes in other people's lives, especially when they need those changes.
For instance, I noticed many children go hungry in other countries. Instead of doing all we can for them, many turn a blind eye, because other things take precedence. It becomes someone else's problem, instead of ours. We will give to a church - a dollar, or to friends - a beer, but to a child that needs a meal, well...some give nothing. I'm sure God wouldn't want us to do that either. Ok, don't stress about it, but if each of us gave what we could, I think that would be a special blessing to many.
I am equally sure that he would want us to have a heart, and give to those who don't have as much as we, even if it means looking funny to someone within our own group.
What everyone else does is entirely up to them, but, as for me...this weekend, instead of giving my church that all important dollar or so, or giving my kids a few dollars to get ice cream, I'm going to send a charity those same dollars, so that they will feed a child that needs to be fed.
I would bet that God will smile when I do. At least, I hope so. ;) I wonder how many will follow in tow? angel
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I added some of my artwork to my profile
Sunday, April 20, 2008 8:35:26 PM
I hope you enjoy the photos of my artwork. The pictures should tell the story, hopefully. ;) If not, look at the names of the photos. That should give you more of an idea of what I was trying to get across, with each one. ;)
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Church
Sunday, April 20, 2008 8:16:17 PM
Church was interesting, today. And to be honest, I think they got this one right on the head. The pastor spoke about being too busy, and not taking time to rest. I have to agree with him. I think we all do that, sometimes, without realizing what's at stake. Even in the bible, it tells you that you should keep the sabbath holy, that you shouldn't work on the sabbath. I mean, even God rested on the seventh day, yet, many times, we're all so busy that we forget to do the same, which essentially really wears our bodies down to nothing. We always appear to be striving for more, as human beings, when we really don't need to. Maybe some of us forget that concept?
Then, they spoke about this marital group that was meeting. And a couple came up to speak about it, that had already attended. I thought, "Yeah, I need that, not!" I'm not with anyone, so that didn't apply to me.
However, something that the husband said, struck me as interesting. Even though I'm not in a marital situation, or even dating, currently, doesn't mean I don't have relationships. I do, obviously. We all do, however small they are.
Needless to say, in those relationships, sometimes the tv or other things become our focus...essentially, we're committing adultery with the dang things...a TV. Think about it...a simple four sided box captures our attention, sometimes more than our family. Can you imagine that?
So, instead of spending time with a significant other, family, or friends, you're spending time with a box...Ms. t.v. or Ms diving, or Master work, or all the other distractions one has in this world, instead of those you really love and care about. So, essentially, it does apply to everyone, not just those who are married.
Can you imagine how many are affected by this everyday of their lives? No wonder three quarters of marriages don't stand the test of time; family relationships fall to the wayside and many children go their own way without any thought about who they're hurting.
Anyway, I just thought I would share today's activities. By the way, I went home, asked to spend some time with my kids and ended up falling asleep, because their computer and friends were just too important to leave. :( I was wondering if they even heard the sermon, hmm! Oh well, could be worse, eh? At least, I made time to be with them. ;)
angel
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Feeding the Poor
12 months ago
I want to thank all those that have already sent food to the pantry at the First Presbyterian Church of Haines City, Fl. Without you folks, the kids would go hungry, for sure.
I'll tell you something, these kids are very special. During the trunk or treat, you would figure most would have asked for things like new toys for christmas, or something like that. But to see the amount of requests for food, and for their parents to be able to get jobs again...well, it was touching to say the least.
I walked into the church today, and watched their faces light up, when I handed them three big boxes of food, filled with all sorts of canned goods, thanks to all those that have already helped. Of course, that will be gone by this evening, if not sooner. However, it will mean a few more children...not just children, a few more families will eat again.
Let me tell you a little about some of these families, because I think it's important that you know who they are. Some are from the poorest areas you could ever imagine. At least 85% of them don't even have proper clothing to wear to keep warm. Some are church members that have helped these children out, over the years, and kept the other children from going cold. Many were working two jobs, just to try to feed their own, and many only received one meal at school, per day, because the parents couldn't afford even food.
These aren't families that don't want to work. These are the families that do the dirtiest of jobs, just to make sure others can have enough to eat. Their kids suffer, daily, while the parents work those jobs. However, now, their jobs have been cut, and they are going without themselves. And when their families are affected...so is everyone they've taken care of, throughout the years.
So, this is a highly beneficial cause, in my book! I am not interested in you folks sending money to the church. But, please, send one can or two, to the church, so that these children can eat. What does it take...one extra can bought at the supermarket? All you have to do is put a piece of paper on it that says the church address...and write on it, for the pantry, and from God's Angels. After all, anyone who helps out, is one of God's Angels, obviously. Besides, it helps them to keep track of where it came from and where it's supposed to go.
Please don't forget these children. They truly need all the help we can give them. I beleive that God tells us that we should all help each other. What better way to do so, then giving one or more people a little food, in their time of need? Wouldn't you want someone to help you, if you needed it? I know, I would!
So, please send your canned goods, and don't forget the children, this year. They really need your help!
http://orlando.citysearch.com/profile/2731920/?brand=smx_yp-nc By the way, if you're curious if you will be sending it to a real church...feel free to come down and check it out yourself. They have a 501C, so you can even get a receipt if you want. Don't forget them. They wouldn't forget you! ;)
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God's Angels...and really feeding the poor! Will you help?
Sunday, November 09, 2008 1:07:06 PM
My church has put out a call, because of the hard times that are occurring to many.
Apparantly, there have been so many people needing financial assistance, due to job losses, etc., that their food pantry is regularly bare by Friday. Thus, there is nothing for many to eat, when people need it.
I'm not asking for a donation of money...but, instead, cans of food to be sent to the church. All it takes is for one to pick up an extra can of food, while shopping, put it in a box and send it to the church. How hard is that? A can of chili costs about .40 cents. I'm sure we could all afford that. A can of corn, a mere .42 cents in most stores. Shipping depends on where you live, of course, but I suspect it wouldn't cost more than a dollar & change to send it, including the box (?)
We recently had a trunk or treat at the church. Kids were putting prayer requests in the boxes. Most of these prayer requests were for more food to eat. How do we tell them that there is no food? Could you do it? This is one of the poorest areas in Polk County, so it's no wonder it's been hit hard.
Currently, the church is supplying most of the school supplies for three schools: Alta Vista, Eastside Elementary and Dundee Elementary in Florida. Every year, the schools end up with plenty of supplies because of it's members. They've also provided after school tutoring for each of those schools, free of charge. The church routinely brings medical supplies and food to countries that most haven't even heard of. They've gone out of their way to help the sick, the weary, the jobless and homeless.
I'm putting out a call to all that have ears and a heart. Please send this to as many as you can, so that we can assist the church to help the hungry, in their time of need. If you needed the assistance, yourself, this is the type of church that would extend their hand to help you. It wouldn't matter if you walked in the church in jeans and a tee. They wouldn't care! They rarely ask for money, & they do so many good things for others. They use what money they have to feed and house the poor, rather than feeding themselves.
Hit up your local supermarket, and ask them to help too, if they can. Ask your local police station, as well, to make a donation of food. Your job is a wonderful place to have a canned food drive too and it's a great way to make everyone feel like they're contributing to something great.
All you have to do is wrap it all up and send it to the church. Please send it with a piece of paper that says, "from God's Angels." That way, they'll know where it came from. I'm asking all of you, as my friends, to please send this to as many as you can. All food (or cash) donations can be sent to First Presbyterian Church in Haines City. The website is:
http://www.fpchainescity.org/ Their address and phone number is on the site and they're listed in the phone book. They're a 501c, so they're able to accept donations. If you want, you can even get a receipt. That way, you can deduct it from your taxes.
This is what I want for a birthday gift -- to feed the poor, as God said we should!
Bless you all,
Angel
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Pastor Tom
Wednesday, September 24, 2008 12:39:19 AM
Some of you know that I was diagnosed with both Dystonia and Copd, about a year and a half ago. But what I'm about to tell you, isn't really about me.
I was in church a couple of weeks ago, and I sat in the pew, listening to the sermon. I found myself thinking that the pastor couldn't know what it felt like, to be in my position. I was ok with that, but I thought to myself that if he did, his belief concerning God would be a thousand times stronger than what it was, presently.
I didn't think anything more, after that.
Anyway, Pastor Tom wasn't feeling well on the following Sunday. I noticed that another elder of the church did the sermon for him. The next week, I found out the real reason why, though.
Apparantly, Pastor Tom was at the hospital having some tests done. He told the congregation, this week, that he was diagnosed with cancer. In a way, I guess he now knows what it's like to be in my position. Although, I spoke those words in church, cancer wasn't exactly what I had in mind for him.
Pastor Tom is very needed in this world! He truly touches all who hear him in the church, and in the community. This is a man that got everyone together so that they could gather thousands of school supplies for several schools. This is a man that speaks from his heart, and touches thousands of people, weekly. This is a man that goes out into the amazon, himself, to help those who need it, whether it be medically or spiritually. This is a man that makes sure tutoring for children is available, free of charge, and spiritual counselling is available free of charge. He doesn't live a dream life. He, instead, lives a modest life.
So, I'm asking all of you -- my friends, to pray for him. Enough prayers and I know he will be fine, because God tells me so, in the bible. He's at the First Presbyterian Church of Haynes City. Please send him your well wishes there, and send along your prayer for him.
I don't ask anyone for anything for myself, but this is one time I ask ALL of you to ask the father for Pastor Tom's complete recovery.
Thank you all and God Bless you,
Angel
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What ever happened to REAL relationships?
Thursday, August 28, 2008 11:28:23 PM
People appear to have fallen to the wayside. Many don't work through relationship issues anymore, and I think it has to do a lot with people's withdrawal from Godly actions. They prefer 'what feels good' in today's day and age, over God, for some reason.
It appears that everyone wants to fit in with what's an accepted practice, because others do it.
Not me, I would rather do what's right...and sometimes, doing what's right, means going against what others believe in. Believe it or not, that takes a great deal of conviction of one's values.
In fact, have you ever noticed that the only people who are shunned are those that stand up for what's right, now a days?
If you go along with others, people, pretty much, tend to go along with you. But, if you say something against what is 'considered' the 'norm', you're ostrasized, attacked, and thought of as some loser. Amazing, eh? So, if you have a real opinion about what's right...all of a sudden, no one wants to hear it, especially if it means that someone else is doing something wrong or hurtful toward another.
I mean, think about it. If you believe in God, now a days, you're thought of as some bible-thumping pain in the rump. If you do as God wants you to do...such as waiting til marriage to have sex with someone, you're immediately thought of as some sexually-deprived and deviant individual who hasn't a clue about what intimacy in a relationship is really about.
You could be as smoothe as Don Juan, but if you're not jumping in the sack with 50 women, you're thought of as 'poor Don'. The same applies to women who don't want to become physically intimate immediately. If you choose not to lie, automatically, you're a liar, because 'everyone' lies. It doesn't matter if you do or don't...no one would believe it, regardless. If you don't drink, you're not of the norm either...and so, you're thought of as an outsider!
People don't teach each other about love anymore...and about doing what's right for others, so that life is simpler for them. Instead, most tell each other, "If it feels good, do it!" Then, everyone wonders why our kids 'feel' like walking into schools and shooting the person(s) they don't like, or taking out the ones that gave the shooter a hard time. Why do we wonder? After all, they're just 'doing what feels right to them", eh?
People do the same with relationships. The thought pattern is: "Everyone else cheats, why shouldn't I?"; "I don't like what I have at home, I'll go seek someone else"; "The other person will give me what I want, and I won't have to work as hard to get it."; "It's too hard, I'm going to find someone new."
The list goes on and on. Personally, I believe that it's all based on a lack of moral values, a lack of belief of religion, and a lack of following something that many used to believe in all the time -- God!
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What ever happened to REAL relationships?
Thursday, August 28, 2008 11:17:52 PM
Religion, now a days, isn't taught to most people -- not in school, not at home, not in the relationship. And, as such, people tend to seek out 'whatever feels good' to them.
Similar to Sodom and Gomorrah...life is grand, or so they think. :( Try to recall what happened in Sodom and Gomorrah!
A rabbinic tradition, described in the Mishnah, postulates that the sin of Sodom was related to property: Sodomites believed that "what is mine is mine, and what is yours is yours" (Abot), which is interpreted as a lack of compassion.
This applies to the new thought patterns of many relationships too. But, as you can see for yourself, just like Sodom and Gomorrah, life is anything, but grand! For those of you who don't know the story:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodom_and_Gomorrah
What do you think?
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The Pit!
Sunday, July 27, 2008 2:39:26 AM
I was watching a christian show early this am, & I wanted to share it with all my friends, because I beleive a lot of this is happening, daily, with others.
There are two types of people in this world, according to the pastor. And, many of these people have fallen into a pit, so to speak. Various things that have happened in their lives, have caused them to be angry, and upset.
The people in these pits, are called "adders". Adders grab at others and add them to the pits, too...by convincing the others that everyone is out to hurt them. Inside the pits, the adders continue to harbor ill feelings. They grasp at revenge and hate the ones that have done them wrong. They add more hurts and pains, on top of the other ones they carry around, and they build emmense walls around themselves. They attempt to protect themselves from others, all the time, even against those that might wish to love them. And, the more walls they have, the harder it is to reach them. Instead, they keep reaching up and dragging others into those same pits, and eventually, they have pit-ty parties!
Yes, lots of folks believe them, because they, too have been hurt by others. They too, have had it a bit rough, what with their ex's and their bad business deals, their kids, schools, doctors, etc.
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The Pit! II
Sunday, July 27, 2008 2:38:39 AM
Yes, the adders build these enormous walls around themselves, and no one can get close to them. But, that's ok...they're perfectly ok, all by themselves...them, and their dogs/cats, the other adders, their possessions, and their money. Or, at least, that's what they tell themselves.
Yes, they've built a phenominal little fortress that keeps everyone out, except those they drag into the pit, with them...and even those are kept at bay. Essentially, they end up completely guarded, but all alone!
On the other end of the spectrum, there are those we call 'the ladder people.' They're the ones that understand that in order to grow toward God, you have to experience pain, at times. That's the only way you will be able to open up yourself, to what he says.
The 'ladders' hand the ones in the pits, tall ladders in which to climb out. The ladders support the adders, and they help them to realize that everything that happened in their life, was for a reason. That reason was to break them down, so that they can come to the lord from a different position; one which is humble understanding, and open.
But the adders are so bitter that they prefer staying in the pit...wandering about, aimlessly, as opposed to grabbing one of those supportive ladders that helps them to see what it is that God wants them to learn.
I am one of the ladder people. I know that the pit is necessary. I, too, was in it, several times. I knew that I had to let go of everything that was bad. I had to turn all my pains over to God. You see, when you harbor ill feelings toward others, and you aim to get them back for all the pain they caused you, instead of leaving it in God's hands, you, essentially, fall in the pit.
You end up putting a barrier around yourself that's a mile wide, so you don't get hurt again. Nothing can get in...but, nothing can get out either! Of course, then, you can't grow. And, because you can't grow, you can never come to a place of understanding and acceptance. You end up holding onto the anger and hurt...and eventually, you're so busy protecting yourself against others that it becomes a permanent situation. You literally destroy everything that comes your way, that might be good.
I see a tremendous amount of people doing this, on a day to day basis. Instead of reaching for the ladders that others throw their way, via support and understanding, and letting God handle their trials, they're busy building more walls, taking revenge, or shutting themselves down completely, just so that they never get hurt again. To me, that's very sad!
So, I'm going to make this a public request to all of you. I urge you all to grab a ladder Let go of your fears for a day. Just turn them over to God for even one day. And, take one giant step up the ladder I'm tossing to you. One step toward opening yourselves up to one other person in this world. Maybe, just maybe, some of you will see that life can be as sweet as pie, once you let go of the anger and fear, When you let God handle it all, it has a meaning and a purpose. At least, that's what I'm hoping you'll see. Please consider me the first step on that ladder...and I'll hold it steady for any one of you to grab. I hope you will all join me, without fear for one day.
angel
Anyway, I figured I would post all the information I posted there, to here, so I have a copy of what was stated and when it was stated. Feel free to read any, or all of it, or none of it. Some of it might sound strange or bizarre. Don't worry, it sounded a bit strange to me too, at times, since I didn't understand how it all fit together (at least, at that time). Now, I think I understand more of it, but still not all. Nonetheless, thoughts are just that...thoughts! Sometimes they make a lot of sense, and sometimes they don't. So, take them for what they're worth...whatever that is!
Posts:
Meeting People
Wednesday, May 14, 2008 9:24:27 PM
I used to think that meeting people online was a good thing. However, I've noticed that many use this online medium as a way to advance themselves, or should I say 'catapult' themselves, into other's lives. Many tell tall tales of what 'they believe', simply because they can, and then they expect you to believe it, even if it sounds bogus. Most of them have said the lie so many times, that they truly believe them. However, when you question these things, they get annoyed with you. How dare you say what is the obvious.
I don't know about others, but if someone tells me something like they've died and gone to heaven, I want to know the reality of it, not just what they proclaim. I don't want a self-proclamation that appears to make it real...you know, it's just so, so you should take my word for it kind of thing. I don't need proof of God, but if someone said something to the effect of, I died...well, I don't know about others, but I want to know if a doctor said that or not. Wouldn't you? I'm the type to question things like that, because it's so easy for folks to make up things, now a days.
Likewise, if someone says that they're from another country, or even another state, you would figure they would know all about the place they come from, right? Yet, many who claim to be from here or there, don't even know their own language. Can you say B.S? Sad to say, though, I've found that most people are so busy telling lies to get others to open up to them, that when the person saying the lies doesn't even know where one lie starts and the other ends, well...I guess you can figure out from that point on that you shouldn't waste your time on them.
The problem I have, though, is that this happens so much online, that after awhile you start to wonder if there is even one person out there that doesn't believe in lying. I mean, come on people...others aren't dumb. People can actually tell when you're telling tall tales about yourself, and it's hardly becoming. Haven't any of you ever heard the saying, thou shalt not bear false witness?
I've seen this time and time again, on the internet...and to be honest, I'm tired of it! This new world we live in is so sad. It's easy to figure out who to trust and who you shouldn't, but a pain in the rump when you have to constantly keep one's eyes open. It appears that one always has to be on their guard, because there are so many that hope you will go against what you're taught...common sense!
You practically have to just assume that the person you're speaking with is probably telling tall tales, unless they can show that they aren't. It's a difficult way to live, though. It's like everyone wants to be one way, but clearly, it's all a falsehood, and it's just said to drag one into their lair of lies.
Oh well, it's time to go play a nice game of chess...with those who are real, and truly have my heart...my family. Take care all...and watch out for those who purport one thing, when reality stares you in the face. God be with you all!
angel
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De-Stressing
Tuesday, May 06, 2008 10:01:03 PM
While I was in church this weekend, they spoke of how important it is to de-stress from life's little ups and downs, by not putting so much emphasis on that which isn't important.
The sermon jumped around from story to story, making us laugh from time to time, about some of the things we all do during our day to day activities. The pastor spoke about simplifying our lives, because God didn't want us stressed out. Go figure!
I giggled when the pastor told us of how our cellphones are brought with us, even in the most unlikely places...such as bathrooms. He said, he had even heard people lie to the party on the other end of their cellphone, when it came to that all too familiar "flush", saying things like they were in a pool and someone just jumped in, or it was a vacuum starting in the hallway, hehe.
Yes, I suspect we all do silly things like that and I think he has a good point...that maybe we shouldn't stress as much as we do when it comes to smaller things that occur in life. Ok, those are things I've decided to "let go and just let god" handle. I agree!
However, I've also noted that when it comes to serious things, many don't take things serious enough. Now, sometimes there is nothing we can do about things, and maybe we shouldn't stress about those. Maybe we should learn to 'let go and let god handle them.'
But, on the other hand, some of us don't do anything at all, even though we can make some vast changes in other people's lives, especially when they need those changes.
For instance, I noticed many children go hungry in other countries. Instead of doing all we can for them, many turn a blind eye, because other things take precedence. It becomes someone else's problem, instead of ours. We will give to a church - a dollar, or to friends - a beer, but to a child that needs a meal, well...some give nothing. I'm sure God wouldn't want us to do that either. Ok, don't stress about it, but if each of us gave what we could, I think that would be a special blessing to many.
I am equally sure that he would want us to have a heart, and give to those who don't have as much as we, even if it means looking funny to someone within our own group.
What everyone else does is entirely up to them, but, as for me...this weekend, instead of giving my church that all important dollar or so, or giving my kids a few dollars to get ice cream, I'm going to send a charity those same dollars, so that they will feed a child that needs to be fed.
I would bet that God will smile when I do. At least, I hope so. ;) I wonder how many will follow in tow? angel
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I added some of my artwork to my profile
Sunday, April 20, 2008 8:35:26 PM
I hope you enjoy the photos of my artwork. The pictures should tell the story, hopefully. ;) If not, look at the names of the photos. That should give you more of an idea of what I was trying to get across, with each one. ;)
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Church
Sunday, April 20, 2008 8:16:17 PM
Church was interesting, today. And to be honest, I think they got this one right on the head. The pastor spoke about being too busy, and not taking time to rest. I have to agree with him. I think we all do that, sometimes, without realizing what's at stake. Even in the bible, it tells you that you should keep the sabbath holy, that you shouldn't work on the sabbath. I mean, even God rested on the seventh day, yet, many times, we're all so busy that we forget to do the same, which essentially really wears our bodies down to nothing. We always appear to be striving for more, as human beings, when we really don't need to. Maybe some of us forget that concept?
Then, they spoke about this marital group that was meeting. And a couple came up to speak about it, that had already attended. I thought, "Yeah, I need that, not!" I'm not with anyone, so that didn't apply to me.
However, something that the husband said, struck me as interesting. Even though I'm not in a marital situation, or even dating, currently, doesn't mean I don't have relationships. I do, obviously. We all do, however small they are.
Needless to say, in those relationships, sometimes the tv or other things become our focus...essentially, we're committing adultery with the dang things...a TV. Think about it...a simple four sided box captures our attention, sometimes more than our family. Can you imagine that?
So, instead of spending time with a significant other, family, or friends, you're spending time with a box...Ms. t.v. or Ms diving, or Master work, or all the other distractions one has in this world, instead of those you really love and care about. So, essentially, it does apply to everyone, not just those who are married.
Can you imagine how many are affected by this everyday of their lives? No wonder three quarters of marriages don't stand the test of time; family relationships fall to the wayside and many children go their own way without any thought about who they're hurting.
Anyway, I just thought I would share today's activities. By the way, I went home, asked to spend some time with my kids and ended up falling asleep, because their computer and friends were just too important to leave. :( I was wondering if they even heard the sermon, hmm! Oh well, could be worse, eh? At least, I made time to be with them. ;)
angel
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Feeding the Poor
12 months ago
I want to thank all those that have already sent food to the pantry at the First Presbyterian Church of Haines City, Fl. Without you folks, the kids would go hungry, for sure.
I'll tell you something, these kids are very special. During the trunk or treat, you would figure most would have asked for things like new toys for christmas, or something like that. But to see the amount of requests for food, and for their parents to be able to get jobs again...well, it was touching to say the least.
I walked into the church today, and watched their faces light up, when I handed them three big boxes of food, filled with all sorts of canned goods, thanks to all those that have already helped. Of course, that will be gone by this evening, if not sooner. However, it will mean a few more children...not just children, a few more families will eat again.
Let me tell you a little about some of these families, because I think it's important that you know who they are. Some are from the poorest areas you could ever imagine. At least 85% of them don't even have proper clothing to wear to keep warm. Some are church members that have helped these children out, over the years, and kept the other children from going cold. Many were working two jobs, just to try to feed their own, and many only received one meal at school, per day, because the parents couldn't afford even food.
These aren't families that don't want to work. These are the families that do the dirtiest of jobs, just to make sure others can have enough to eat. Their kids suffer, daily, while the parents work those jobs. However, now, their jobs have been cut, and they are going without themselves. And when their families are affected...so is everyone they've taken care of, throughout the years.
So, this is a highly beneficial cause, in my book! I am not interested in you folks sending money to the church. But, please, send one can or two, to the church, so that these children can eat. What does it take...one extra can bought at the supermarket? All you have to do is put a piece of paper on it that says the church address...and write on it, for the pantry, and from God's Angels. After all, anyone who helps out, is one of God's Angels, obviously. Besides, it helps them to keep track of where it came from and where it's supposed to go.
Please don't forget these children. They truly need all the help we can give them. I beleive that God tells us that we should all help each other. What better way to do so, then giving one or more people a little food, in their time of need? Wouldn't you want someone to help you, if you needed it? I know, I would!
So, please send your canned goods, and don't forget the children, this year. They really need your help!
http://orlando.citysearch.com/profile/2731920/?brand=smx_yp-nc By the way, if you're curious if you will be sending it to a real church...feel free to come down and check it out yourself. They have a 501C, so you can even get a receipt if you want. Don't forget them. They wouldn't forget you! ;)
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God's Angels...and really feeding the poor! Will you help?
Sunday, November 09, 2008 1:07:06 PM
My church has put out a call, because of the hard times that are occurring to many.
Apparantly, there have been so many people needing financial assistance, due to job losses, etc., that their food pantry is regularly bare by Friday. Thus, there is nothing for many to eat, when people need it.
I'm not asking for a donation of money...but, instead, cans of food to be sent to the church. All it takes is for one to pick up an extra can of food, while shopping, put it in a box and send it to the church. How hard is that? A can of chili costs about .40 cents. I'm sure we could all afford that. A can of corn, a mere .42 cents in most stores. Shipping depends on where you live, of course, but I suspect it wouldn't cost more than a dollar & change to send it, including the box (?)
We recently had a trunk or treat at the church. Kids were putting prayer requests in the boxes. Most of these prayer requests were for more food to eat. How do we tell them that there is no food? Could you do it? This is one of the poorest areas in Polk County, so it's no wonder it's been hit hard.
Currently, the church is supplying most of the school supplies for three schools: Alta Vista, Eastside Elementary and Dundee Elementary in Florida. Every year, the schools end up with plenty of supplies because of it's members. They've also provided after school tutoring for each of those schools, free of charge. The church routinely brings medical supplies and food to countries that most haven't even heard of. They've gone out of their way to help the sick, the weary, the jobless and homeless.
I'm putting out a call to all that have ears and a heart. Please send this to as many as you can, so that we can assist the church to help the hungry, in their time of need. If you needed the assistance, yourself, this is the type of church that would extend their hand to help you. It wouldn't matter if you walked in the church in jeans and a tee. They wouldn't care! They rarely ask for money, & they do so many good things for others. They use what money they have to feed and house the poor, rather than feeding themselves.
Hit up your local supermarket, and ask them to help too, if they can. Ask your local police station, as well, to make a donation of food. Your job is a wonderful place to have a canned food drive too and it's a great way to make everyone feel like they're contributing to something great.
All you have to do is wrap it all up and send it to the church. Please send it with a piece of paper that says, "from God's Angels." That way, they'll know where it came from. I'm asking all of you, as my friends, to please send this to as many as you can. All food (or cash) donations can be sent to First Presbyterian Church in Haines City. The website is:
http://www.fpchainescity.org/ Their address and phone number is on the site and they're listed in the phone book. They're a 501c, so they're able to accept donations. If you want, you can even get a receipt. That way, you can deduct it from your taxes.
This is what I want for a birthday gift -- to feed the poor, as God said we should!
Bless you all,
Angel
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Pastor Tom
Wednesday, September 24, 2008 12:39:19 AM
Some of you know that I was diagnosed with both Dystonia and Copd, about a year and a half ago. But what I'm about to tell you, isn't really about me.
I was in church a couple of weeks ago, and I sat in the pew, listening to the sermon. I found myself thinking that the pastor couldn't know what it felt like, to be in my position. I was ok with that, but I thought to myself that if he did, his belief concerning God would be a thousand times stronger than what it was, presently.
I didn't think anything more, after that.
Anyway, Pastor Tom wasn't feeling well on the following Sunday. I noticed that another elder of the church did the sermon for him. The next week, I found out the real reason why, though.
Apparantly, Pastor Tom was at the hospital having some tests done. He told the congregation, this week, that he was diagnosed with cancer. In a way, I guess he now knows what it's like to be in my position. Although, I spoke those words in church, cancer wasn't exactly what I had in mind for him.
Pastor Tom is very needed in this world! He truly touches all who hear him in the church, and in the community. This is a man that got everyone together so that they could gather thousands of school supplies for several schools. This is a man that speaks from his heart, and touches thousands of people, weekly. This is a man that goes out into the amazon, himself, to help those who need it, whether it be medically or spiritually. This is a man that makes sure tutoring for children is available, free of charge, and spiritual counselling is available free of charge. He doesn't live a dream life. He, instead, lives a modest life.
So, I'm asking all of you -- my friends, to pray for him. Enough prayers and I know he will be fine, because God tells me so, in the bible. He's at the First Presbyterian Church of Haynes City. Please send him your well wishes there, and send along your prayer for him.
I don't ask anyone for anything for myself, but this is one time I ask ALL of you to ask the father for Pastor Tom's complete recovery.
Thank you all and God Bless you,
Angel
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What ever happened to REAL relationships?
Thursday, August 28, 2008 11:28:23 PM
People appear to have fallen to the wayside. Many don't work through relationship issues anymore, and I think it has to do a lot with people's withdrawal from Godly actions. They prefer 'what feels good' in today's day and age, over God, for some reason.
It appears that everyone wants to fit in with what's an accepted practice, because others do it.
Not me, I would rather do what's right...and sometimes, doing what's right, means going against what others believe in. Believe it or not, that takes a great deal of conviction of one's values.
In fact, have you ever noticed that the only people who are shunned are those that stand up for what's right, now a days?
If you go along with others, people, pretty much, tend to go along with you. But, if you say something against what is 'considered' the 'norm', you're ostrasized, attacked, and thought of as some loser. Amazing, eh? So, if you have a real opinion about what's right...all of a sudden, no one wants to hear it, especially if it means that someone else is doing something wrong or hurtful toward another.
I mean, think about it. If you believe in God, now a days, you're thought of as some bible-thumping pain in the rump. If you do as God wants you to do...such as waiting til marriage to have sex with someone, you're immediately thought of as some sexually-deprived and deviant individual who hasn't a clue about what intimacy in a relationship is really about.
You could be as smoothe as Don Juan, but if you're not jumping in the sack with 50 women, you're thought of as 'poor Don'. The same applies to women who don't want to become physically intimate immediately. If you choose not to lie, automatically, you're a liar, because 'everyone' lies. It doesn't matter if you do or don't...no one would believe it, regardless. If you don't drink, you're not of the norm either...and so, you're thought of as an outsider!
People don't teach each other about love anymore...and about doing what's right for others, so that life is simpler for them. Instead, most tell each other, "If it feels good, do it!" Then, everyone wonders why our kids 'feel' like walking into schools and shooting the person(s) they don't like, or taking out the ones that gave the shooter a hard time. Why do we wonder? After all, they're just 'doing what feels right to them", eh?
People do the same with relationships. The thought pattern is: "Everyone else cheats, why shouldn't I?"; "I don't like what I have at home, I'll go seek someone else"; "The other person will give me what I want, and I won't have to work as hard to get it."; "It's too hard, I'm going to find someone new."
The list goes on and on. Personally, I believe that it's all based on a lack of moral values, a lack of belief of religion, and a lack of following something that many used to believe in all the time -- God!
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What ever happened to REAL relationships?
Thursday, August 28, 2008 11:17:52 PM
Religion, now a days, isn't taught to most people -- not in school, not at home, not in the relationship. And, as such, people tend to seek out 'whatever feels good' to them.
Similar to Sodom and Gomorrah...life is grand, or so they think. :( Try to recall what happened in Sodom and Gomorrah!
A rabbinic tradition, described in the Mishnah, postulates that the sin of Sodom was related to property: Sodomites believed that "what is mine is mine, and what is yours is yours" (Abot), which is interpreted as a lack of compassion.
This applies to the new thought patterns of many relationships too. But, as you can see for yourself, just like Sodom and Gomorrah, life is anything, but grand! For those of you who don't know the story:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodom_and_Gomorrah
What do you think?
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The Pit!
Sunday, July 27, 2008 2:39:26 AM
I was watching a christian show early this am, & I wanted to share it with all my friends, because I beleive a lot of this is happening, daily, with others.
There are two types of people in this world, according to the pastor. And, many of these people have fallen into a pit, so to speak. Various things that have happened in their lives, have caused them to be angry, and upset.
The people in these pits, are called "adders". Adders grab at others and add them to the pits, too...by convincing the others that everyone is out to hurt them. Inside the pits, the adders continue to harbor ill feelings. They grasp at revenge and hate the ones that have done them wrong. They add more hurts and pains, on top of the other ones they carry around, and they build emmense walls around themselves. They attempt to protect themselves from others, all the time, even against those that might wish to love them. And, the more walls they have, the harder it is to reach them. Instead, they keep reaching up and dragging others into those same pits, and eventually, they have pit-ty parties!
Yes, lots of folks believe them, because they, too have been hurt by others. They too, have had it a bit rough, what with their ex's and their bad business deals, their kids, schools, doctors, etc.
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The Pit! II
Sunday, July 27, 2008 2:38:39 AM
Yes, the adders build these enormous walls around themselves, and no one can get close to them. But, that's ok...they're perfectly ok, all by themselves...them, and their dogs/cats, the other adders, their possessions, and their money. Or, at least, that's what they tell themselves.
Yes, they've built a phenominal little fortress that keeps everyone out, except those they drag into the pit, with them...and even those are kept at bay. Essentially, they end up completely guarded, but all alone!
On the other end of the spectrum, there are those we call 'the ladder people.' They're the ones that understand that in order to grow toward God, you have to experience pain, at times. That's the only way you will be able to open up yourself, to what he says.
The 'ladders' hand the ones in the pits, tall ladders in which to climb out. The ladders support the adders, and they help them to realize that everything that happened in their life, was for a reason. That reason was to break them down, so that they can come to the lord from a different position; one which is humble understanding, and open.
But the adders are so bitter that they prefer staying in the pit...wandering about, aimlessly, as opposed to grabbing one of those supportive ladders that helps them to see what it is that God wants them to learn.
I am one of the ladder people. I know that the pit is necessary. I, too, was in it, several times. I knew that I had to let go of everything that was bad. I had to turn all my pains over to God. You see, when you harbor ill feelings toward others, and you aim to get them back for all the pain they caused you, instead of leaving it in God's hands, you, essentially, fall in the pit.
You end up putting a barrier around yourself that's a mile wide, so you don't get hurt again. Nothing can get in...but, nothing can get out either! Of course, then, you can't grow. And, because you can't grow, you can never come to a place of understanding and acceptance. You end up holding onto the anger and hurt...and eventually, you're so busy protecting yourself against others that it becomes a permanent situation. You literally destroy everything that comes your way, that might be good.
I see a tremendous amount of people doing this, on a day to day basis. Instead of reaching for the ladders that others throw their way, via support and understanding, and letting God handle their trials, they're busy building more walls, taking revenge, or shutting themselves down completely, just so that they never get hurt again. To me, that's very sad!
So, I'm going to make this a public request to all of you. I urge you all to grab a ladder Let go of your fears for a day. Just turn them over to God for even one day. And, take one giant step up the ladder I'm tossing to you. One step toward opening yourselves up to one other person in this world. Maybe, just maybe, some of you will see that life can be as sweet as pie, once you let go of the anger and fear, When you let God handle it all, it has a meaning and a purpose. At least, that's what I'm hoping you'll see. Please consider me the first step on that ladder...and I'll hold it steady for any one of you to grab. I hope you will all join me, without fear for one day.
angel
posted by angel at 11/14/2009 10:36:00 PM
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