NEVER GIVE UP

Posted on October 28, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

I’ve used this image before, because it shows a sense of determination that we all need right now. It would be the easy way out for us to fall into the temptation of self-pity or depression. We have reason to feel that way, but it isn’t what God has in mind for us. He doesn’t sit up there in heaven thinking of ways to drive us crazy. He loves us and wants what’s best for us.

Though the things of this world can cause us great angst, we can count on the fact that He is our defender against all of it. He will provide an answer – a solution – another day. As Jesus states in His Holy Word, His kingdom is not of this world. He reigns in heaven, but in the meantime, what about all the junk that continues to plague us on planet Earth? He’s got that too.

Instead of counting up all the negatives that happen around us, take a look at the blessings we have. Instead of painting a picture of disaster one way or another after the coming election, let’s be grateful that we still have a voice as citizens of this great country. Instead of looking at the new waves of Covid19, let’s look forward to a cure and be thankful that there are brilliant minds searching for it. Instead of feeling sad that our children must be isolated from their social activities to stay safe, let’s be thankful that they can still learn virtually. Instead of just getting angry about racism, abortion or other issues that beg difference of opinion, let’s look for solutions for the problem and work together for answers.

There is always some good to look for. When we choose to find it, we’re opening the door to understanding. God has a plan for each one of us. It was determined before we ever came to be. In His wisdom, He has masterfully executed those plans and if we allow it, we will have much to look forward to.

Like the little mouse in his protective headgear, we can obtain the prize. Our goal isn’t a measly piece of cheese. It’s eternal life in paradise. All we need to do is ask.

“You are the sum total of everything you’ve ever seen, heard, eaten, smelled, been told, forgot – it’s all there. Everything influences each of us, and because of that I try to make sure that my experiences are positive.” Maya Angelou

Posted in America | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments

MY SEWING MACHINE

Posted on October 27, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

 
My sewing machine was a gift from my husband over 40 years ago.  I felt like a queen when I got it, not only because it was an expense that didn’t fit into our budget, but it was one of the best sewing machine available at the time. It was first used to create little fashions for my growing children. In those days it was fairly economical to sew. The kids wore matching outfits for most holidays until they realized it wasn’t cool.

So I turned to making doll clothes for our youngest.  I soon came to my senses.  Sewing Barbie fashions requires perfect eyesight, delicate fingers and tons of patience, of which I have none.  No price is too high for Barbie clothes.

Instead I turned my Viking Husqvarna into a means to eek out a little income. This wonderful machine could pierce through leather. It could embroider. It required little maintenance. Soon I was making a little extra money doing alterations – or altercations, as one of my customers called me.  I made saddle bags for motorcycles, vests out of deer hides and went through about 45 sewing machine needles a week.

When I began teaching drama, this wonderful invention created more costumes than I can remember.  There was the three headed queen, talking trees, caterpillar, Humpty Dumpty, Tweedles Dee and Dum, poodle skirts, aliens and on and on. Once, as I fashioned some little lamb costumes, I ran my finger under the needle along with the fluffy fabric. Talk about putting your blood into your work. A few stitches to sew me up and I was back at it.

It has been a while since I worked on that machine. It now sits in a corner of the laundry room – untouched until just recently when I attempted to make some masks. I probably could’ve started a whole new enterprise, but moving that portable contraption from its comfortable place into a spot that would be more workable, took every ounce of strength I had.

And so it remains idle. From time to time I think about trying again, but I quickly dismiss that idea. It’s really cheaper to buy stuff that’s ready made now than it is to sew. At least that’s what I keep telling myself.

I must say that the gift given me so many years ago has served its purpose. It has paid for itself many times over. My Grandfather was a tailor.  I never got to meet the man, but I think he would be proud to know that his granddaughter picked up on his craft.  I wonder if he had a sewing machine as good as mine.

Posted in Encouragement | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

HOWLING AT THE MOON

Posted on October 26, 2020 by atimetoshare.me
ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Two lonely hearts stand tall against the moon so bright above,
Proclaiming sounds unheard by men, of their undying love,
They lift their heads up to the sky, yet keep their gazes locked,
They plan a secret rendezvous, as hands move round the clock.

The winter sky so ghostly looms and weaves among the stars,
No voices heard except their own, the sound bares many scars,
Just two alone at last are they, within the pale moonlight,
They shine like diamonds in the snow, this lady and her knight.

Posted in ART & POETRY BY THE BOECHERS | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

ARE YOU LISTENING?

Posted on October 26, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

As most of you know, I’m losing my hearing so I miss a lot of the conversations that go on around me.  I can’t really enjoy a television show, because it’s hard to determine the plot when you can’t hear the words.  Recently I switched to closed captioning, but even that can lead to misinformation. For example, as I watched the news one day, they were talking about a person who was resigning from her professional position. The announcer said she had been on the job for six months. The caption said, “she had been on the JOHN for six months. I guess I would resign too under those circumstances.

My husband is starting to experience some hearing loss as well, so our conversations have become not only interesting, but at times comical. Since we are locked up together for the duration, we have no choice but to pay close attention when we talk or we miss the entire flow of the conversation. This can also lead to one person raising their voice while the other feels like they’re being yelled at.

A dear friend of mine gifted me with a set of hearing aids that once belonged to her husband. They’re just like new. I’m hoping to figure out how to use them, but until that time I will have to learn to read lips, continue to laugh at the closed captioning or just nod my head in agreement and hope I’m not agreeing to something I’ll regret.

With all the things we currently have on our plates, it seems like a cacophony of noise that is often indecipherable. Politicians are vying for our attention. Health experts are on hand with new ways to avoid getting a virus, reminding us to get our flu shots and even conducting yearly physicals virtually. Our phone conversations have changed into emails and texting. Our discussions turn into arguments. All of this because we aren’t really listening at all.

Friends are becoming enemies. Relatives aren’t speaking to each other. Communication skills have turned into one sided conversations with no thought for another person’s opinion.

Listening is different than hearing and is one of those things that can be selective.  We can choose what we want to hear.  We can sift through the muck and pick up what we hoped to hear.  We can ignore the really important things and focus only on the things that apply to us.

The art of being a good listener is slowly fading from our existence. We’re being fed so much information electronically, that it’s almost impossible to listen.  Our minds act like sieves, sorting through it all and trying to make sense of it.

Unfortunately, when we fail to really listen, we can miss some important stuff.  A child may have some important words to share about being teased at school.  A teen may have feelings of depression or worthlessness.  An older child is struggling with decisions about their future and you have tuned them out in deference to a sporting event or the news.

When your life becomes so filled with outside distractions, it’s time to sit down and look at what God has to say about listening.

James 1:19 “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger”

Proverbs 12:15 “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice. “

Ecclesiastes 3:7 “A time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak.”

Proverbs 18:13 “”If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.”

When we take the time to actually listen to someone, we’re opening our ears to true discernment. Take time today to listen with an open mind. Don’t jump to the conclusion that only your opinion matters. Our country was founded on many ideas and innovations. If we lose the ability to really listen to others, we may possibly miss the answers we’re looking for.

Posted in America, discernment | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

IN THE MIDDLE OF OUR TOWN

Posted on October 25, 2020 by atimetoshare.me


ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

The broken down feed mill remains firmly planted aside the river bank,
Like a noble guardian, staunchly overlooking the water,

Once filled with golden treasure of the harvest,
It now stands as a tribute to its former glory,

It serves as a place to buy seeds, animal chow and bird food,

The silo which once poured grain into train cars,

Now stands as a monument to its former self,
In a place that offers no solidity –

No barricade against destruction –
No hope of replenishment,

Our harvest is not of this world, but a result of the seeds planted within us,
Treasure beyond measure,

Abundant life,

Fulfillment,

Satiation from hunger and thirst,

No fear of death,

Only eternal life.

Posted in ART & POETRY BY THE BOECHERS | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments

SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER

Posted on October 25, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

Dear, Holy, Father,

It seems strange to be coming to worship you virtually. Unfortunately this is the way of the world right now. When I think about our relationship, it really has nothing to do with the physical edifice of the church, but more so the connection I have with you through the love of your only Son, Jesus.

It took me a long time to realize that you are a God of mercy – that your love comes with no strings attached – that it’s all about you and that perfect love.

Sometimes it feels like this world is too much to handle. We become burdened with all the rhetoric flying around, during a political campaign. We wonder what we should believe and who we should trust. Everything lately seems to carry conditions. We must follow the mandates, wear masks, live with certain protocols and there seems to be no hope for the future. Yet I know that isn’t true.

You have this. You alone control the world, the climate, the storms, the plans you have for us here and in eternity. I should not be afraid. I should be confident in that hope, but it seems an unending test of our faith. Even that is controlled by you and your Holy Spirit.

I come to you this morning in humble supplication. Watch over my country. Remind me that my life in this world is just a time of grace before I come to you in your kingdom. You have already secured my place there. You will help me to overcome the fears of the unknown, because you are all knowing. I place my heart in your hands and ask that you watch over all of us and bless us with the confidence that in the end you have already won the victory. Amen!

Posted in America | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY ONLY SIBLING

Posted on October 24, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

When we were young and innocent, so very long ago,

I didn’t think too much of you at all,

You’d tag along behind me like the shadow you would throw,

Our youth is gone, but still we can recall.

The nights we danced like movie stars, dressed in our own bed sheets,

The mud pies made at grandma’s old farm house,

We fed them to the hungry dog who treasured those weird treats,

We kept that secret quiet as a mouse,

When we became young women I was just four years ahead,

But still you took the spotlight for a while,

The boys all came to court you, I’d lay waiting in my bed,

To hear about your first kiss and I’d smile.

The years went by so quickly and we both took different roads,

We lived our journeys far away from home,

Our families grew, our work increased, we lived each episode,

We shared our lives upon the telephone.

Now as our lives are ebbing and we turn our thoughts to death,

We know that God is waiting for us there,

And when we get to heaven, each day will bring us new breath,

New life and peace, eternal rest we’ll share.

But now we’re in the present and the truth is we’re not dead,

The Lord has more He wants for us to do,

Now texting is our visiting, and emails must be read.

Those things for now will help to see us through.

So on this special birthday, for my only sibling’s years,

I’ll text you with this little poem you see,

My love for you won’t waiver and even through happy tears,

I’ll never forget what you mean to me.

My dear sister, Carol, is celebrating another year of life. She’s had her share of turmoil this year. It seems that 2020 is the year that keeps on giving – more and more surprises and things we find hard to deal with. Carol is one of those steel magnolias that most women strive to be. I’ve cherished her from the day she was born, even though I didn’t always seem to.

My life and the lives of all those she’s touched along the way, have been so much better because of her. I know God has a special place reserved for both of us in heaven and that we will be reunited again for all eternity. Until then, happy birthday to my sister, my dearest friend, my shoulder to lean on and my connection to the past. I love you.

Posted in Family | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

TIME FOR TOLERANCE

Posted on October 24, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

Tolerance is described in the dictionary as a fair, objective, and permissive attitude toward those whose opinions, practices, race, religion, nationality, etc., differ from one’s own; freedom from bigotry. The opposite of being tolerant is to be narrow minded, unbending, inflexible and one who is considered a bigot.

In today’s world we’re asked to be tolerant of everyone, even if it goes against what we believe. It has become the new “in thing” to be. Jesus told His disciples not to judge others, lest they be judged by God. We all face that final judgment, but even though God is tolerant and has forgiven the entire world, He will not receive those who defile His word or His name.

In my opinion it’s much easier to go along with the masses and accept everything and everybody. It’s harder to stand up for what we believe in and stay true to it. Will we be tolerant today? I hope we can continue to remain so without losing our convictions.

God is the most tolerant of all of us. He loves each and every one of us, despite our sinful natures and He wants us to be with Him, but He also expects us to stay strong in our faith, true to His Word and to follow His commandments.


Dear God, As we draw near another presidential election, help us remember those who are running for office. Help us also to keep open minds and look at facts rather than rhetoric. You have placed our governing bodies for a purpose. Our voice – our vote – our opinions can best be expressed through the election process. Amen!

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people,  for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2

Posted in America | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

MY ONE TRUE GOD

Posted on October 23, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

My God is like no other God, His wings span wider than an eagle,

Searching,

Watching,

Uncovering the majesty below,

He lifts me up beyond the sky,

Into eternal paradise,

His hands protect me every day,

He leads me through His perfect way,

He won’t let go, though try I will,

He takes my hand, my heart He fills,

He is my true salvation.

I have no way to thank Him,

My words are not enough,

He’s done it all for my own good,

To make me strong and tough.

When my last breath I finally take,

I know His promise He won’t break,

He loves me more than life you see,

He gave His life to set me free.

Posted in ART & POETRY BY THE BOECHERS, Bible | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

JULIE’S FRIDAY FUNNY

Posted on October 23, 2020 by atimetoshare.me
VINCENT VAN YODA
Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments

TIME TO FLY

Posted on October 23, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

When you reach a certain point in life, you wonder how many things you might cross off the old bucket list. I’ve never thought too much about a bucket list. I’m happy to see the dawning of a new day – to enjoy the company of my husband – to have the memories of a lifetime.

The fact that I’ve never really had any wild goals in my life would probably indicate that I’m a pretty boring person. I’ve never jumped out of a plane to free fall. I’ve never driven at speeds over 200 MPH – swung from a bungie cord across a wide canyon or stood on the top of a pyramid.  You could say, I’ve led a pretty dull life, but I don’t think so.  In fact, I feel like I’m still a work in progress and every day allowed to me from now on is just another opportunity to grow closer to my Savior – my God.

If I were to write a bucket list, I would undoubtedly have a tough time.  I’m afraid of heights; I’m not a very good swimmer; my out of shape body would never carry me to the top of a pyramid – much less a flight of stairs.  I’ve never been one to take chances.  I really play it safe most of the time.  I’m way too conservative to spend money on foolishness.  I know, most bucket lists are designed to take you outside of your box and make you do something you’ve never done before, but I think that most of the things that would be on my list have already been accomplished in my lifetime.

For example I might say I would like to witness a miracle – but I have already seen many.  I have three children, I have been given God’s forgiveness of my sins, I have had all my earthly needs provided for even when I didn’t think they would be. 

Sure, these are the every day miracles that we’ve all seen, but there are more.  There was the Christmas we were up to our ears in medical expenses and it looked like we wouldn’t be able to buy gifts for our children.  That year was bleak for the company my husband  worked for and they weren’t giving out bonuses – except to him.  There was the time I drove for over a mile with a broken tie-rod and made it safely to a place I could get help.  There were numerous occasions when I thought my life would end due to some illness or surgery, but God had other plans for me.  Miracles are all around us if we just look for them.

If our lives mean anything, a bucket list isn’t really necessary.  God has our life all planned out for us and we can expect to have adventures and excitement along the way.  He loves our laughter.  He enjoys our successes.  He grieves when we grieve. He sometimes molds us like a potter punches his clay to make us a thing of beauty.

I’m happy with the life I’ve experienced so far – even the low times, because I know that something wonderful is waiting for me on the other side of eternity and that is where every hope, dream and aspiration will be fulfilled. 

“So if a person lives many years, let him rejoice in them all; but let him remember that the days of darkness will be many. All that comes is vanity.”  Ecclesiastes 11:8

Posted in aging | Tagged , , , | 6 Comments

YOUR WILL, NOT MINE

Posted on October 22, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

My God, you’ve shown your will for me in everything you do,

You break the earth, you cut through rock, you kiss the morning dew,

The skies surrender to your voice, the clouds contain your breath,

You’re seen in every place we go, from life until our death.

Stretched across the mighty seas – far beyond the mountains high,

Your blueprint for each life is planned from morning until night,

The creatures of the forest and the fish beneath the sea,

Are in your constant watch and care, as much as you love me.

The days turn into star filled skies, your finger moves the sun,

Your love for us immeasurable, with you we become one,

Our dreams are not impossible, our hope will never die,

You touch the waters and they rush to reach the other side.

Your will be done forevermore, let me become your tool,

And may I find true peace in all that you would have me do,

I trust your perfect path for me, I’ll never walk alone,

You are right there beside me now and you will take me home.

Posted in ART & POETRY BY THE BOECHERS | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments

6-8 INCHES OF NEW FALLEN SNOW – BLEH!

Posted on October 21, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

I guess we should have expected it. Last week’s little dusting of snowflakes was just a foreshadowing of what was to come. Yesterday, the white stuff, which we refer to in Minnesota as that horrible four letter word, starting falling at about 1 PM and didn’t let up until around 8 or 9 PM.

There were more that 350 accidents and spin outs as those who still commute to work had to adapt to different driving conditions. I don’t know how driving has been in other states lately, but during this pandemic, people drive much faster in my state, with little concern for those around them. Anyway, we were fortunate not to have to go anywhere, but I couldn’t help wondering if this is just another addition to the growing list of complaints about the year 2020.

This morning the sun is glistening over the new fallen snow. Thoughts of hot chocolate are calling to me. As I grow more and more introverted during this time, I’m wondering if I’m alone in feeling this way. I know that we’re three quarters of the way through this year. I know that more is yet to come. Life doesn’t stop during a pandemic, it just becomes more intense. What we do with this time is imperative.

We could sit around, feel sorry for ourselves, cry, “oh woe is me,” or simply give in and pull ourselves deeper into the pit of depression. We could do that, but how is that going to make things better? As I think back to the Renaissance Period in history, the plague had destroyed many lives, but out of that time came artists like Michelangelo and DaVinci. Innovation began to spring up like new growth in springtime. Beautiful poetry was being produced, books were written and published by the newly invented printing press. The Reformation of the church was underway. More and more people were being educated and able to do more than simply eek out a living.

During the time of the Civil War lives were being shattered all across our country. But another disease in the form of tuberculosis was being called the Masque of the Red Death, by Poet Edgar Allan Poe. This genius of a writer lived in poverty for most of his life. He lost many of those he loved to tuberculosis and eventually died penniless and hopeless. Still we have a plethora of his writings to enjoy today.

There will always be sickness in our world, but there will also be those who rise above it – those who use their talents to enrich the lives of others – those who we can count on to get things done – those who serve others before themselves. I pray that this time in the wilderness teaches all of us how much we need each other and God to get through this life. How blessed our lives will be once we reach the other side of it.

Posted in corona virus, Inspiration | Tagged , , , , | 9 Comments

EMBARASSMENT AT THE MOVIES

Posted on October 21, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

Edit Post

Save draftPreviewPublishUpdating failed. Sorry, you are not allowed to edit this post.Add title

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is man-falling-asleep-in-movie-theatre.jpg

I usually read other people’s posts before actually staring my own. This is sometimes a way of sparking some thoughts when I’m not sure what I’m going to write. This morning I read a poem by Carol Congalton at https://adivineunraveling.wordpress.com. Carol always has writings that amuse and she has a fun way of telling stories through her poetry. Go check her out.

The poem she posted today had to do with Matinee Poets. I’d never heard the term before, but it stirred a memory of a time I went to the movies with my grandkids and husband. I think the movie was “Lincoln.” What I saw of it was outstanding. The costuming was spectacularly accurate for the time period. The acting was well done, but I fell asleep during one of the many battle scenes of the Civil War. I’m not sure why. It may have had to do with the fact that I was sitting in a reclining chair that embraced me with heat and comfort. I may have simply tuned out when the guns started shooting and blood was flowing. Whatever the case may be, I fell asleep. That wasn’t bad enough. I started to snore to the amusement of those sitting around me. When I finally was shaken back to reality, my package of Mentos had melted all over my orange jacket. I looked like a Jack-O-Lantern.

Anyway, I promised Carol a poem this morning and here it is.

EMBARASSMENT AT THE MOVIES

I once went to a picture show,

With popcorn, treats and drink in tow,

Reclined in leather seat was I,

I thought I’d died and now could fly,

The dreams of sleep soon overtook,

I fell asleep, felt like a schnook,

Around me bombs were falling fast,

I was part of movie cast.

Guns were firing and blood ran red,

I realized I wasn’t in bed,

When woken by a gentle nudge,

I reached around to find my fudge,

Melted into my jacket there,

From that infernal leather chair.

Posted in humor, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , | 7 Comments

THE GHOST LIGHT

Posted on October 20, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

A ghost light in theatre terms, refers to a light that remains on when the theatre is empty. For those who have been affected greatly by the COVID19 pandemic, this traditional light has remained lit for far too long and it doesn’t look like it will be turned off for quite some time.

The performing arts have been a part of society dating back to the earliest of civilizations. It is a means of expression – a chance to make a statement of sorts – an opportunity to display talent – to offer a voice – to dance, to sing, to create. Even in Biblical times, David danced as he victoriously entered the city – he played the lute to entertain and comfort King Saul through his angst and depression. It is part of our heart and soul as human beings.

We’re told that Broadway will not be opening any shows at least until August of 2021. Recovery from this plague is probably going to take three to five years according to the experts. Little performing venues are closing their doors for good. Children who have gained so much through the creative and performing arts may not see a renewal of that experience during their childhood.

The heart of man is being touched in so many ways through all this. Sometimes things need to go through a cleansing process before they are restored. Sometimes we need to reevaluate, regroup and return to our roots.

I believe we’ve been given this time for such a purpose. We could look a this year as one which should be erased from all time, but then what will we have learned from it? If we take a defeatist attitude, we surely will be defeated. If we look at -our current situation as full of amazing opportunities for change, for doing things new ways, for igniting the creative process, we will have turned the lights back on and given new purpose to the arts and also for the way we face life in general.

God gives us reassurance in this area too, by reminding us that even one tiny glowing ember can grow into a blazing fire. It doesn’t take much, but we must keep that fire lit and never let it go out. Even when things seem their darkest.

Posted in America, corona virus | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments

ABANDONED

Posted on October 20, 2020 by atimetoshare.me


ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

It was nothing more than the skeletal remains of a deserted old building. The facade bore scars on its sun bleached boards. It had become pock marked by the bullets of hail. Remnants of a large bird nest topped the crooked chimney. Windows, soiled by years of lost memories, were now clothed with the silver threads of spider webs, glistening in the light of day.

Within the empty walls, you could almost hear voices from the past. Wallpaper barely clung to the mildewed walls. The floors creaked. A few dishes lined the sink- now coated with dust and dehydrated food. A broken rocking chair sat at the center of the open space. How many babies had been rocked and comforted in that relic of broken furniture?

A tree branch crashed through the roof at some point and now seemed to belong there. The new life, budding from that seemingly dead branch, presented some semblance of hope in the midst of misery. It seemed that the bones were still in place. The foundation was solid. When the sun cast it brilliance on it, I knew this was once a home and it could be again.

Posted in ART & POETRY BY THE BOECHERS | Tagged | 2 Comments

MAKING NEW KINDS OF MEMORIES

Posted on October 19, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

Here we are, in the midst of a pandemic, waiting for another legendary election, waiting to go back to church as we used to, hoping for that job promotion and praying that we stay healthy during the coming winter months.

Really, if we were to take the word of every politician out there, we would be doomed to an eternity in hell if we choose the wrong candidate. If we refused to wear a mask because we can’t breathe when we do, we wouldn’t have to fear being thrown into jail or fined for doing so. What if, instead of living each day in fear of one thing or another, we decide to create new ways of doing things that will lead to new memories.

Memories are the things that fuel our old age. They capture our minds and fill us with warmth beyond measure. The good old days were not always that great, but the memories created during those times will live on and give us some hope for the future.

When I was a kid, it seemed my self-appointed job to entertain people. One of my grandsons felt that same obligation when he was a young boy. He said he felt it his responsibility to make people laugh. We’ve both grown up since then, but somehow that desire to entertain and make people laugh is still within our souls.

I remember taking a few of our old sheets and clothes pinning them to a rope outside. I’d find a few set pieces to place in front of the “curtains” and rounded up a few of the neighbor kids to make a play. As every young entrepreneur will tell you, you have to add some popcorn and lemonade to sell just to sweeten the pot for your audience and make a ka-ching sound in your pocket as well. Our plays were not worthy of praise, but the popcorn was good. It was a great way for neighbors to get together and share time and words of encouragement.

Well, some things don’t change even in the middle of gathering restrictions. The little theatre I’m involved with has been holding outdoor performances for the last three months. Two of these shows featured adult performers and one consisted of kids from 6th grade and up. In spite of a few rainy day rearrangements and a chilly October rendering of readings from Edgar Allan Poe, all three performances were a success.

The memory of those old backyard shows warmed my heart as semi-icicles formed on my masked face. Actually the mask was a nice face warmer. People sat socially distanced as a warm bonfire crackled in the background.

It seems to me that when life gives us lemons, we can certainly make lemonade instead of a bitter concoction of angry thoughts and hatred. For a small moment in time, we can journey into a different place and escape the maddening sounds of the world. This time can lead to the formation of new memories that will carry us during future times – times that will return again soon. When that happens, we will look back on this time as a time of healing for our nation. What a lovely memory that will be.

Posted in America, corona virus | Tagged , , , | 6 Comments

TREASURE OR TREASURED

Posted on October 18, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

In my lifetime I have experienced living with little, living modestly, living with means and living with little once again. When you have money, it doesn’t mean you are happier or are twice blessed. It simply means you have more to be in charge of.

Having wealth can bring some sense of freedom from worry, but it doesn’t buy peace of mind or happiness or love or the things of true value including eternal life. Whatever we are blessed with in life is a gift from God and should be managed as such.

God gives us so much more than worldly riches. He gives us the silver of His forgiveness and the gold of an inheritance with Him in heaven. Thank you, Lord, Jesus for giving me this gift of promise. Remind me that earthly wealth is just temporary. I have so much more to look forward to. It’s what lies ahead that gives us true wealth.

Don’t give me a mansion on top of the hill.

Don’t give me the world with a shallow thrill.

But just give me a savior my life He can hold.

I’d rather have Jesus than silver and gold.

Posted in Christian devotion | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments

JULIE’S FRIDAY FUNNY

Posted on October 16, 2020 by atimetoshare.me
Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments

FAKING IT

Posted on October 15, 2020 by atimetoshare.me

The word hypocrisy is defined as the practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one’s own behavior does not conform; pretense.  Being an actor and one who teaches acting, I guess I could be labeled a hypocrite.  Getting in front of an audience as a character from a play could really be construed as faking it.

The fact is each of us is guilty of being a hypocrite at some time or another.  Even Peter, the rock solid man of God, became weak when push came to shove.  As believers we cannot be susceptible to reason or logic when it comes to our beliefs.  We must be willing to stand strong and firm in faith and the power of the Holy Spirit and the very truth of God’s own words.

Not always easy, is it?  Peter had Jesus right with him and yet when asked if he was one of Jesus’ disciples, he said he didn’t know Him.  How often do we deny our Savior?  Are we willing to literally lose our head because of Him?  I stand in awe of those who are currently being persecuted for their beliefs.  I honestly don’t know if I would be able to profess my faith in such a way.

I think God knows that too.  He knows our weaknesses and faults much better than we do.  He knows how much we can bear.  He knows what our limits are.  He created each one of us, so He knows everything about us.

God, forgive my weaknesses as only you can.  Walk with me each day, each hour, every minute and second and give me the strength to honor you in any way I can.  When I falter, lift me up and give me the courage to stand tall for you.  With you all things are possible. Amen!

Posted in America | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments