FREEDOM COMES AT A GREAT PRICE

Posted on July 2, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The cost of freedom can readily be seen in the faces of those who have paid the price.  The military men and women who served and gave the ultimate price for their country.  A while back, Ken Burns did a special on the Civil War and the now famous letter was read during the presentation.

The ending of a very heart-rending letter, written by Union soldier, Sullivan Ballou, on July 14, 1861 reads:

But, O Sarah! If the dead can come back to this earth and flit unseen around those they loved, I shall always be near you; in the gladdest days and in the darkest nights … always, always, and if there be a soft breeze upon your cheek, it shall be my breath, as the cool air fans your throbbing temple, it shall be my spirit passing by. Sarah do not mourn me dead; think I am gone and wait for thee, for we shall meet again …”

Sullivan Ballou would meet his death at the Battle of Bull Run only one week later.

The thoughts of those facing battle for a cause they truly believe in is noble. We can learn much from their letters.  Here is a sampling of some quotes from letters over our country’s short history. I wonder if we are still willing to pay the price these heroes did.

Even though our country is currently in turmoil, I believe that patriotism is still alive.  There is still a tiny ember burning.  Freedom is worth it.  We need to remember that. As we approach the celebration of the birth of our nation, let’s never forget the bravery and courage of the men and women who serve her.

LETTERS FROM SOLDIERS

“The battle has been raging all day in the distance and I am unable to ascertain whether any thing has been gained or not. O how I long for this war to end. How I long for peace. How will I hail the day when I return to the bosom of my family. My Dear I hope to see you.” (Samuel D. Lougheed letter to his wife Jane “Jennie” Lougheed, April 30 – May 1 1863  Civil War.)

“The Dangers we are to Encounter I [know] not but it Shall never be Said to my Children your father was a Coward.”  (Taken from a letter from an officer serving the British Crown as a second Lieutenant out of Connecticut in 1774, prior to the Revolutionary War.)

“The ambulance ride down here was easy. I rode in the front with the driver. As soon as I was admitted here, the doctors took me under their wing had I moved into their quarters with them. I should be here too much longer. This is my fourth day. I think. Rumor has it the boys are digging in up on the hill. I have tried to keep melodrama out and the facts in throughout. You asked for color—if most of it happened to be hemoglobin red, it wasn’t because I wanted it that way.”  (Portion of a letter from Lt. John W. Harper, USMCR – September 22,1951 Korean War

“I would be desireous to get home but I cant any way to get to without doing as them that has gon and I think it is best to stay to such time as I can go home in safety and with some honor as I cant think to lose my time for nothing and be farther back than when I started.” (portion of a letter written by John Hollyday on May 27, 1813 War of 1812.)

“I have purposely not told you much about my world over here, because I thought it might upset you. Perhaps that has been a mistake, so let me correct that right now. I still doubt if you will be able to comprehend it. I don’t think anyone can who has not been through it … I live in a world of death …”  This letter was written by Quentin Aanenson to his girlfriend, Jackie Greer, on December 5, 1944.  After writing it, he folded it up and placed it in his foot locker – never mailing it.

Even though we seem to be on the verge of great division in our country, we need to remember that a nation under God will never perish.  Freedom is worth the fight.

Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments

GOD BLESS OUR NATIVE LAND . . .

Posted on July 1, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Independence – a word that indicates freedom from the oppression of a government or from serving others. It indicates our ability to be self-reliant. This week we celebrate our country’s independence as presented in our founder’s words seeking independence from the far-away land of the British Empire. Our neighbors to the north, are celebrating Canada Day today. For most citizens of the world, independence means we become a nation of free people. Those who form their own government and those who follow the laws of the land will have the ability to choose, speak freely, start a business, follow their dreams, work together and not live under oppressive leadership.

The idea of being free is evident in all areas of life. Kids can’t wait for the day when they’re free of their parents’ rules. Young adults search for ways to live on their own, without parental interference. Middle age allows us to follow our own path and work for the future without boundaries. As we age, we long for freedom from the natural process of aging. Being a Christian requires us to be good citizens and obey what our leaders have established as government even if we don’t always agree with what they do or say. With another election year upon us, we are free to turn off our TVs, put away all contact with the news and live like a hermit for the next few months. Or we could become involved, by becoming educated on the candidates, consider running for political office, or not lose faith in the country in which we live. All of those choices have become clouded in the past century.

It is God’s will that we live as free people because of the price He paid for our freedom from sin. As we celebrate our independence as one nation, under God let’s turn back to Him for our true leadership. Christian men and women through the ages have defended their country and its ideals. They did so because of their love of freedom. May God continue to bless America and keep her safe, and may our true freedom be evidenced in our love for our God and our country.

Happy Independence Week!

Posted in 4th of July, aging, equality, freedom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

WATERS FALL . . .

Posted on June 30, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

Miles and miles of boulders,

Smoothed by the caress of tumbling water,

Cascading,

Swirling,

Crashing,

Descending,

As a bird soars and dives,

To feed her young,

We often fall,

We sometimes fail,

We have no wings,

But we can fly,

We have no cage to hold us,

No bondage to deter,

But we can face the crashing falls,

Of each and every day,

We have no power to save ourselves,

But God provides the way,

He guides us to still waters,

Amidst the storms of life,

He holds us back when storms around us rage,

When we can’t contain ourselves,

When no earthly power can,

He directs our paths,

Refining,

Redefining,

Claiming,

Holding,

So that our thirsting souls at last,

Are directed to Him.

A

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, peace, storms | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on WATERS FALL . . .

LORD, HEAL OUR LAND . . .

Posted on June 29, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The past week was filled with anticipation, disappointment, fear and sometimes rage. Wars continue to rage in far off countries while here at home we’re fighting an even greater enemy. As we begin a new week which focuses on America and her independence, it’s hard not to think in negative terms. I’ve promised myself not to get into political rants anymore, because they’re pointless. The only thing, in my opinion, which will change the problems we face as a nation are in the hands of God and His imminent wisdom.

The debates leave a feeling of desperation to many folks. Some believe that age is a deterrent to becoming President of the United States. Others concur that our choices are way too limited for the one who will be elected President. Some claim that you can’t get elected unless you’re rich. All of this adds to the lack of pride we used to hold precious on the Fourth of July.

I truly dislike looking back at the old days with great reverence, because our country has never been perfect, but the lack of respect for her continues to grow by leaps and bounds. We have become so divided that it brings memories of a war that cut her in half more than a century ago. Still there is a glimmer of hope. Our founders were men of faith in God. They laid out the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence with God at the center. Yes, we are a nation of many races, religions and ethnicities, but we were originally founded as a Christian nation. Will that ever return? I think the Bible passage in 2 Chronicles 7:14 says it best. We need to humble ourselves and ask the Lord to forgive our sinfulness on a daily basis. Turning to Him in prayer and asking Him to heal our land certainly is a good start.

THE PRICE OF FREEDOM – POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

What is the price of liberty? Where lies the victor’s prize?
Is it in bodies lying still, beneath the cold, dark skies?
The cost to win our freedom cannot be seen in life,
But in the brave hearts smitten to take away our strife.

Our Savior did this willingly when tortured on the tree.
He gave His life and rose again so we could be set free.
No human life could do this. It had to be from God.
So we could see His love for us both here and far abroad.

His word He gave to teach us all the things we need to know,
His life He gave to save us from the pain that lies below.
So lift your voice to Jesus. His love will never die.
He purchased for us paradise. He’ll care for us on high.

Posted in 4th of July, America, Poetry by Kathy Boecher, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on LORD, HEAL OUR LAND . . .

DEBATES . . .

Posted on June 28, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

SOMETIMES A PICTURE IS WORTH MORE THAN A THOUSAND WORDS!

Posted in America, Humor, politics | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on DEBATES . . .

IT’S JUST A TEST . . .

Posted on June 27, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

This life is full of tests.  So much depends on how we deal with them.  I’ve always been one of those who sailed along comfortably and when things started to get choppy, I’d give up.  Whether it was looking at a test paper without any preparation and blanking out, or being prepared, but not for the questions you’re being asked, I resist, I struggle, I delay, I often simply give up, because testing is hard and I don’t like hard things.  Do you?

Most of us look for easier way of doing things.  When we’re given a way out, we usually grab it without question, but is that really the best for us?  I believe that God knows us better than we know ourselves and the tests He puts in our lives are designed to strengthen us and make us even more grateful for the end result.

When was the last time you endured a long struggle?  Did it serve any purpose?  Think about it.  Did it bring about a change or did you learn anything from it?  So often, when faced with difficulties, I can’t’ help wondering why.  Why is God allowing this to happen to me?  What am I suppose to learn from this?  What good is it accomplishing?

It’s discouraging.  It’s tough.  It’s tiring and frustrating.  It’s a pain in the neck, this whole process of living.  When things become overwhelming, we blame others, we blame ourselves, we even blame God.  Trials are not meant to break us, but to strengthen us, but sometimes it doesn’t feel that way.  Sometimes we don’t want another test.  We think we should’ve passed by now, but still each day brings something new – some way to refine us, to temper us like steel, to put us in the fire and perfect us.  We resist, we struggle, we delay, we try to ignore and in some cases we just give up.

God has promised us that He will never give us more than we can bear, but what if your health fails – your finances are in such bad shape that you can’t buy groceries for the week – you lose your spouse, your job, your mind?  God also promises that He will be with us through every one of our trials.  In fact, He came to earth as a human being, to experience the same things we do.  He even suffered a horrific death so that we would live forever.

We aren’t alone.  We have the King of Creation at our side in every situation if we only believe in Him.  It’s not a matter of our accepting Him.  He’s already accepted us.

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THANK YOU, JESUS FOR ANOTHER YEAR

Posted on June 26, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Just about a year ago, my husband underwent a biopsy on a mass that showed up in an MRI. The mass was in his chest and close to his heart. Before going under anesthetic, the anesthesiologist had a talk with him. Because of a faulty heart valve and heart murmur, along with an aneurism on his brain and other health issues, it seemed very risky to proceed with the biopsy. Paul decided to go ahead after prayerful consideration. The test came back being positive for cancer. The prostate cancer that he had received radiation treatment for several years back had reared its ugly head once again.

When he met with the oncologist, he was presented with some potential treatment plans, but because of his many other serious health issues – with the consideration of his family and prayers to the Great Physician, we decided it would be best to not undergo any further treatment. He was told that he probably would live 2 months to a year without treatment. It has been a year now. We thank Jesus for this extra time He’s given both of us and those who love this wonderful man.

At the sixth month checkup, all vital signs were good. He met with a cardiologist who agreed that it wouldn’t be wise to have heart surgery, because of the risk of death. I’m not sure how much longer I will be allowed to have this amazing man in my life, but I thank God for giving me this extra year. The power of prayer is evident and has been throughout our almost 60 years of marriage. We’ve had our share of ups and downs, sickness and health, success and failure, but God has always seen us through those times. God’s intervention has reduced the mass in size over the past year. We both know that death will come someday, but neither of us is afraid to die. We know that God’s love will continue even after death and for eternity.

THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR EVERY SECOND, EVERY MINUTE, DAY AND YEAR YOU PROVIDE FOR OUR LIVES TOGETHER. WE WILL PRAISE YOUR NAME AND HONOR YOU FOREVER AND EVER, AMEN!

Posted in aging, cancer, eternal life | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 15 Comments

IMPROV FOR SENIORS . . .

Posted on June 25, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

I’ve spent most of my life either performing, teaching others the craft of acting (mostly children,) writing plays, returning to college to take theatre classes in my 40s and doing commercial work. From my earliest years, I’ve found great enjoyment in performing. When I was old enough to talk, I felt it was my vocation in life to make people happy. This past three weeks, which included my 82nd birthday, I’ve been co-teaching improv to seniors 55+. This has been one of the highlights of my years as an educator and performer.

Twice a week for two hours a day, we’ve been sharing our knowledge of the importance of spontaneity – thinking in the moment – losing inhibitions – working with gestures, physical and vocal exercises and a whole lot of laughter. Through this process something wonderful has happened. One of the participants noted on the first day that laughter was something missing in her life. Often when we age, we forget how to do that simple thing which brings so much joy into our being. Another person said she learned to listen more. Maybe part of not listening has to do with being hard of hearing, but even that can be overcome by reading body language and even doing some lip reading. One thing I noticed was that my body was again doing things that seemed impossible a few weeks before.

Aging does not have to be a death sentence. The group we worked with was compiled of several decades of age. Each one had the unique ability to shed their fears and try something they had never done before. By doing so, their memories became sharper. They responded to each other. In three short weeks, we became united in the way we though, along with the way we worked together. We gained some new friends in the process and made their lives and ours a little better for a while.

I encourage anyone of senior age, to find a senior center that offers a variety of classes or events. Those in our classes were very busy senior citizens. Art classes, writing, pottery, history, whatever your interest, this place had it all. I have been set free from some of my own inhibitions. Even with knees that have lost their resilience, I was able to stretch myself further than I had physically in some time. Age is a state of mind – so they say. If you are unwilling to try, you’re missing out on something that might just give you a new outlook on life. I’m not saying this is for everyone, but it has been a blast for this old lady.

Posted in aging, Friendship, Uncategorized, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS

Posted on June 25, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

“SHOW ME YOUR WILL, LORD“

You can almost imagine the sound of a babbling brook,

Trickling rapidly over rocks,

winding over obstacles, but still persisting,

Each turn in that flowage, touches something along the way,

We can be like that force,

As we tumble through life, we touch others,

Our presence has some impact on those we meet,

Either good or bad,

Wouldn’t it be grand if we made a huge difference,

If we could change another’s circumstances,

Lend a hand,

Be a friend,

We can reach beyond our wildest imaginations,

We can inspire, encourage, support, care,

With those tools,

We are making a difference,

Not only in someone else’s life,

But in our own.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Encouragement, Nature, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS

I’M SORRY . . . AGAIN!

Posted on June 24, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Saying, “I’m sorry,” can seem meaningless to the one who is asking for forgiveness. Lately I’ve been saying that phrase a lot. I’m sorry for the pain that someone is enduring. I’m sorry for the anxiety of making multiple decisions at a time in life when I should be content. I’m sorry for words that have been spoken without thinking of how it might affect someone’s feelings. I’m sorry for worrying so much. I’m sorry for hurting you – for disappointing – for requiring so much from you – I’m sorry again and again and again.

When we ask God to forgive our sins, He doesn’t think twice. Because of His unconditional love, we can count on it. We can load ourselves with guilt and feel that what we’ve done or said is unforgiveable, but God has already taken care of that too. He knows what we struggle with. He feels our suffering. He is with us in every situation, but still we ask to be forgiven over and over. We’ve said things in anger. We’ve felt bad about it the next day, but the words have already been said and our human nature makes it almost impossible to forgive ourselves.

When you’re on the brink of hopeless, turn to the One who Knows everything that is in your heart, your mind and your soul. He loves you. He has never given up on you. He gave the ultimate sacrifice, and He has forgiven you – over and over again.

Posted in aging, fogiveness, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

DOES ATTENDING CHURCH SAVE YOU?

Posted on June 23, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

There is a common misconception floating around that going to church is the only way you’ll get to heaven. Let me assure you that what saves you is the love of the Holy Trinity, the sacrifice made to cleanse you from your sins and the assurance that your slate is clean. There is nothing YOU can do to make that happen.

In my lifetime I’ve seen a steady decline in church attendance. Part of the decline has to do with what’s going in in the American family. Church used to be a part of Sunday mornings and many times, extended into the afternoon hours with fellowship, family get togethers, potlucks and Christians encouraging each other. When Sunday came, we knew we were going to church. Some might call it a wasted part of the weekend when we could be adding to our own personal recreation. Others might think that by attending church they are making amends with God and then go on living the way they were before and after church ends. Some attend church simply to worship. So why is church attendance falling by the wayside?

During the COVID epidemic, we became a nation in isolation. We were required to stay home and hopefully avoid the spread of the disease. A good thing came out of that time. Online church services were made available, so many were still able to attend church, hear the message, sing the hymns and worship all in the comfort of their own homes. After that, many continued to isolate. Going to church took on a new facade. Now you could watch and hear the service without even going.

During the past fifty years or so, the ministry is also declining. There aren’t enough pastors to house the many existing churches. A new approach to worship has created the partnering of those many edifices to compensate for the lack of ministers. The building itself, the preacher, the size of the congregation has very little merit in the eyes of God. The real church is the body of Christ accompanied by those who believe in Him. We can worship anywhere – in a closet, in our own living room – in nature – anywhere that God is (which is everywhere,) and with our prayers at any time.

The church itself is full of sinners just like you and me.  It’s an imperfect body of soiled and ugly people – often dressed in their most beautiful clothes and looking like a million bucks.  Within this seemingly perfect refuge lies deceit, judgment, anger, adultery, bigotry, liars, hypocrisy, thieves and every other kind of evil you can imagine.  This is one of Satan’s most popular places to visit, because it’s filled with imperfect people who are subject to sin. However, when you look at the ministry of Christ, it took place in the most unusual places. He went to the core of humanity – to the sinners of the world – to all those who needed His healing.  He still does.  Through His Word, the Bible, He comes to the broken hearted, the poor in spirit, the lost and condemned and those who need Him most.

Going to church isn’t going to guarantee our salvation, but if our church is preaching the truth of the Bible, we will be nourished each week and fed with the good news of the Gospel.  A steady diet of God’s truth will show us that our sins are forgiven through Jesus.  It will heal troubled spirits and lift those who are sad out of depression.

Posted in church, refuge | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

FULL OF LIFE

Posted on June 22, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

What started as a single seed reclining in the earth,

Is now a giant masterpiece with monetary worth,

The time it took to grow this tree encompassed many years,

It suffered many bruises and witnessed many tears,

Some of its limbs were withered, while others brandished life,

Its trunk was strong as iron, yet endured all kinds of strife,

As winds defiled and bent its frame, it seemed that he was lost,

Its roots exposed, its spine now bent from cold and bitter frost,

Still it survived and grew some more and pierced right through the clouds,

Its life went on and does today, evading death’s dark shrouds,

We like that tree continue through life’s discouraging path,

We place our hope in worldly things and we receive God’s wrath,

But when we put our hope in Him our life will never end,

And it will be much greater than our minds can comprehend,

The growth that we experience throughout our earthly days,

Will never reach comparison to what His love purveys,

We lift our eyes to heaven and know what waits beyond,

To see the face of Jesus and know He will respond.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

BREATH OF GOD

Posted on June 21, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

What inspires writers to write? Each of us has a story inside our brains. Maybe by using that story, we may inspire someone else with the words. Does it matter? There are so many stories out there. There are millions of writers who aspire to encourage, get people thinking, to teach, to encourage and build others up with their words. There are lots of writers who use the pen to slander, to belittle or humiliate. There are many who wish to become famous and make lots of money with their words. There are those who truly have a gift for the craft and those who think they do.

If you are a wordsmith, you have a responsibility to fact check – to make sure that what you’re writing about is completely true. Not only should you be willing to take criticism and face rejection, but you should have the courage to do so. Writing anything today is going to have an effect on someone who reads your words. Your words have the power to ignite, incite and excite. Those same words can cause division, create negative opinions and have a profound impact on those who read them.

Writing for me has a number of reasons behind it. I write plays for people of all ages. My works have not been submitted for publication, because of my fear of rejection. The plays are meant to entertain. I love it when people laugh at the comedy I include in them. I also write poetry from time to time. My poems don’t follow any rules. They’re a combination of my inner thoughts which may turn into rhyming verse. I write a daily blog for my own benefit. By doing so, I do a lot of research and search the scriptures to find things that will inspire others and lead them to Jesus. I consider my early morning time of doing that as my daily Bible study.

Words don’t always come easy. Words aren’t always the right ones. Whether spoken, written or heard, words hold great power. I pray that God will allow me to help someone today.

BREATH OF GOD, By Kathy Boecher©

Churning, swirling, pulsated by the turbulence of energy,

The long, leaf lavished limbs of mature trees, undulate under the  rhythm of God’s breath,

Up and down, here and there, tossing, stirring,

His inspiration comes in the wind,

His Words have been breathed into the hands of men,

He speaks to us through them,

He never grows tired, never spent of energy, never sleeps,

Breathe life into me, Lord, God,

That my remaining days may be a testimony to you.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, God, Inspiration | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

ANOTHER DAY OLDER & . . .

Posted on June 19, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

It’s that time again. Another day, another birthday. Who would’ve thought I’d ever live this long? I still own the baby dish from which my mother once fed me. I’ve collected lots more stuff over these 82 years. Of those collections, the most important are the memories God has saved in my mind. The people who nurtured me as I grew up. The friends I made along the way. The man I fell in love with. The children entrusted to us. The relatives who put up with me. Those who counseled me, prayed for and with me, the partners I shared a stage with, my fellow church members. My students. My grandchildren – who are the most amazing creatures on this earth – next to my own children and husband. A lifetime filled with memories both good and bad, but a life well=lived.

I found this listing of old hymns, renamed for those of us over 50. I thought it was appropriate for an old lady like me.

Give Me the Old Timers Religion

Just a Slower Walk with Thee

Go Tell It on the Mountain, But Speak Up

Nobody Knows the Trouble I Have Seeing

Guide Me O Thou Great Lord God, I’ve Forgotten Where I’ve Parked The Car

Count Your Many Birthdays, Count Them One By One

Blessed Insurance

It Is Well With My Soul, But My Knees Hurt

Jesus loves me, in spite of myself

This has been a year of many challenges, but it has brought me one more year with all those I love – especially my family. Thank you, Jesus for another day.

Posted in aging, Family, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 15 Comments

SURROUNDED BY LIONS . . .

Posted on June 18, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The lion sculpted in wood was a birthday gift from my husband several years ago.  Paul spent many hours carving, chiseling and sanding to craft this special dramatic mask of sorts. The lion has always been a symbol of strength and prowess. This cat has also been used to describe the stealthy power of our enemy – the devil.  I prefer the first choice.  God is our refuge and strength and through Him all things are possible – even our ability to fend off the distractions get in the way of our journey.

Our world is full of tragic news and difficult decisions.
We struggle to find good in all the strife and dark divisions.
The devil uses all these things to tug within our reasoning.
Manipulating all our thoughts, with his own special seasoning.
But God’s power is much stronger. He’s crushed the serpent’s head.
He took the devil’s strength away when He rose up from the dead.

The evil one still walks the earth, in shadows and in darkness.
He preys upon our weaknesses. He thrives upon our starkness.
He lurks as lions tend to prowl while foraging for food,
But never will he find real peace, since he cannot bring good.
The day will come when angels sing their songs from up above.
When God will come to judge us all with justice and with love.

Lord, give me wisdom from your Word. Protect me with your arm.
Keep me within protective wings that shield me from all harm.
You’ve conquered death and so will I, as long as I trust You.
You’ve taken all my sins away. There’s nothing I can do,
Except to spread your Word of truth and love as you loved me.
Now shield me from the evil one and set my spirit free.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, God, Salvation | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

VANTAGE POINT

Posted on June 17, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

When you get to be my age, many of my evening hours are spent in front of the TV set. Recently we watched a movie called, “Vantage Point,” with Dennis Quaid as a bodyguard for the president of the United States. As the film progressed, it became apparent that the president was in actuality being portrayed by a stand in for the Commander in Chief. It was an interesting concept. The fact that so much is being revealed about A.I. got me to thinking. I’m certain many conspiracy theories are out there about such possibilities. Artificial Intelligence has been around for a while, but the idea that a doppelganger of a famous person could be recreated to duplicate another kind of blew me away. I started thinking about other things in the world these days, being invented to duplicate life so perfectly that you can’t tell the difference between real and imaginary.

My crazy mind started to reach back into history. What if President Lincoln or John Kennedy had access to such a thing? What if all the important people in the world were able to put themselves on display in their own image, but not a real entity. I thought about the terracotta army created by the first emperor of China. A complete replica of real soldiers was unearthed to reveal what looked like a fierce infantry of armed men. In World War II, an imaginary group of soldiers and tanks duped the Germans into believing they were seeing the real thing. Do you suppose we’re heading in that direction? Maybe someday wars will be fought with such man-made armies. Eventually there may be no need for humanity at all. Heaven help us.

I know there is some good in creating a life-like image of an important person for their protection, but I wonder how much longer man will try to imitate God and His superhuman abilities. From the Garden of Eden all the way to present day, we see how humanity is not satisfied with what God has so brilliantly created and given to them. They think they can determine how long a person should live, whether a fetus should be aborted, if a mechanical version of themselves can replace the God given gifts of life. We may think that we know as much as God does. We may think ourselves capable of matching His power and strength. We might even think of ourselves as all-knowing or as omnipotence, but no amount of artificial intelligence will ever be able to replicate what God has masterfully created. After all, the term AI means artificial intelligence and holds no real intelligence at all. Who knows where it can lead and the harm it can cause if one of them goes rogue.

Posted in creation, God, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

NOT EVERYONE CAN BE A DAD . . .

Posted on June 15, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Fathers come in all sizes, shapes, colors and different temperaments and personalities. Fathering a child is the easy part. Becoming a dad is entirely different. To earn that title, you will be required to discipline with love – teach without belittling – demonstrate by example – be on hand and involved in your child’s life – support them financially, spiritually, emotionally and physically – be willing to put yourself at the bottom of the heap yet be on top when it comes to guidance and leadership. Not an easy task for any man, but a “superhero” dad is that kind of father.

Did you know that George Washington never fathered children of his own. He raised two of his wife’s children from her first marriage. He also received the title of “Father of his country,” and was a leader of armies, politicians, a floundering new independent nation and has his image on the dollar bill. I imagine he came from a long line of fathers. We don’t really hear much about them, except for the incident with cutting down the cherry tree.

Fathers in George’s day were viewed as stern disciplinarians. Today, they’re viewed as their children’s buddies or besties. George’s shoes must’ve been difficult to fill. He played a huge part in the formation of a country. Yet, he was a human being, just like you and me. When men are placed in the public eye, they’re expected to act a certain way. Today, men in high places are subject to slander, exposition, falsehoods and downright lies.

There is a common thread that runs through time, even though things change. Fathers have a huge responsibility to be involved in their child’s life. Some of them can’t handle the obligation and dedication expected of them. Like most things worth living for, becoming a parent requires a lot of sacrifice, pain and hard work. God is there to guide them He has written a manual on parenting that advises, teaches, supplies answers to the question – how does a father become a dad? That manual for all aspects of living is God’s Word, the Bible. The Father of all creation knows what He’s talking about. He knows about sacrifice. He is filled with unconditional love and will answer when you call on Him. Living under His direction, those who love their children will inherit the kingdom of heaven. That gift will carry on from generation to generation. Then you will know what it is to be a dad.

Posted in aging, Father's Day, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

THE AGE OF INNOCENCE . . .

Posted on June 14, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

When we look into the face of a newborn, all we see is sweetness and innocence. The angelic countenance of an infant could not possibly be imperfect in any way. As they grow into toddlers, we wonder who replaced our darling child with the corrupted little imp we now see before us. That dear child was born with a sinful nature, just like the rest us. They don’t have to be taught to be disrespectful. No one shows them how to raise the roof to get attention. Their ability to show their bad sides is inborn. 

We, as parents, need to teach our children to love and care for others. They must learn how to look up to those who know more than they do. Kids as well as adults need direction in their lives. We need boundaries and limits. We need rules. We need guidance.  God knew that when He established the Ten Commandments.  The first three of them are in regard to our relationship with God and the rest have to do with how we relate with others.

In modern times, we have all but forgotten those commands.  We might look at them as suggestions for how to live, but not really necessary.  We have become accustomed to adjusting the rules to fit our own needs.  The world is not perfect, and we need God and His Holy Word to guide our lives. So do our children. We can teach our kids to respect others, but if we don’t become an example, they will soon see right through it.  We can teach our children manners, but if we aren’t polite or kind, we become hypocrites in our behavior.  Kids are smarter than we give them credit for.  They usually follow their parents’ example. Their set of rules for living can quickly be altered by the world.  The job of a parent is not to be a friend, but a leader – an example – and one who loves enough to discipline.

“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4.

Our innocence was lost when man sinned against God, but it was regained when He sent His only begotten Son to take on the load of sin – suffer humiliation and abuse – die on a cross – rise again from death to show us that life doesn’t end when we breathe our last. About ten years ago, I wrote the following poem which deals with the power of God working in our children through our parenting of them.

INNOCENCE

Our lives begin in innocence, we are too young to know.
But even in those fledgling years, we choose the way we go.
Our minds are bright our will is strong.
We think we know what’s right and wrong.
Our very hearts grow black with sin, our souls drift to and fro.

We can’t escape the grip of sin. It grows within our heart.
It’s like a cancer moving in and tearing souls apart.
There’s not a thing that we can do.
Our fate is sealed, our death is too.
Our path is filled with darkness, we have no place to start.

Our God showed love omnipotent. He sent His own dear Son.
To pay the price for my misdeeds – salvation He has won.
There’s not a word that I can say,
For burdens lifted every day.
My soul was purchased with His blood, the work has all been done.

How can I thank you, my dear Lord, for everything you gave,
So, I will too in heaven live. My soul from sin is saved.
I give my heart and soul to you.
There’s nothing else for me to do.
I’ll praise your name forevermore – my sin is washed away.

Posted in Father's Day, parenting, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

21st CENTURY DAD . . .

Posted on June 13, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Down through the ages, fatherhood has had its ups and downs. Fred Flintstone had a foot powered car to cart his kids around. During the Renaissance, Leonardo daVinci had to live up to his dad’s expectations so he invented things, painted and sculpted things, looked at life outside the box. Robert Young was the perfect dad in the 1950’s because everyone knew that he knew best about everything. Bill Cosby portrayed the dad who had a humorous view of life and made us laugh. Today, dads have grown up on things like technology, the Internet, cell phones, social media, selfies and all things electronic. One thing that dads have in common has nothing to do with the time in which they lived, but how they lived as a dad.

Communication has changed a lot in the last 80 years. In my early upbringing, I knew dad was the head of the house. My mom and my sister knew that too. Dad was a blue-collar worker, working the night shift in a factory. We had limited time to interact and usually it was at the dinner table when we did. Dad was always cranky, because he had just come out of a deep sleep. Usually, he didn’t have much to say, but his fatherly advice was more than often peppered with sarcasm. We still ate together at the same table, with no distractions, other than a judgmental glare from time to time.

When my husband and I started our family, I vowed that we would have at least one meal at the dinner table. That didn’t always work, because of the endless basketball, cheerleading, soccer games, etc., meant we’d eat on the run. Those dinner table discussions were usually met with limited time and a rush to get out the door.

In the 21st Century, families have drastically changed. There are very few occasions when we actually sit down and talk while we eat. Fancy China and crystal have been replaced with paper plates and plastic cups. Communication is relegated to texts, GIFs, memes and selfies. I’ve actually seen kids in restaurants communicating via phone while in the same room. Breaking through the electronics can be a hopeless cause and talking face to face is almost impossible unless you use Face Time.

My point is, that we’ve lost the art of conversation. Maybe if we were to assign even a few minutes to actually gathering and talking about events that occurred during the day, or having a brief Bible study, would get us back into the habit of using our voices again. I know that God is always in charge and even when it seems we aren’t getting through to our children, God is watching over them. He loves it when we talk to Him. Our prayers are the most effective conversation we can have. In the meantime, I suggest families carve out a specific time, just to talk to each other.

Posted in aging, Father's Day, parenting, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

FATHER’S DAY QUOTES . . .

Posted on June 12, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

There are many funny things that people say about fathers. Why is it when we look for a card to represent our deepest feelings towards this man that had a huge part in our life, we tend to find one that will make him laugh? Being a father is probably one of the most misunderstood job a man will ever undertake. He is part of a partnership which requires constant attention, due diligence, love, dedication, wisdom, and yes – laughter. As we grow older, our obligations become less, but the benefits of fatherhood will remain until your dying day. The older we get, the more important the job becomes. So here are a few sayings from some famous fathers that will tickle your funny bone.

  • “We wondered why when a child laughed, he belonged to Daddy, and when he had a sagging diaper that smelled like a landfill, ‘He wants his mother.’” —Erma Bombeck
  • “When I was a kid, I said to my father one afternoon, ‘Daddy, will you take me to the zoo?’ He answered, ‘If the zoo wants you, let them come and get you.’” —Jerry Lewis
  •  “To be a successful father, there’s one absolute rule: When you have a kid, don’t look at it for the first two years.” —Ernest Hemingway
  • “Having a 2-year-old is like having a blender without a lid.” —Jerry Seinfeld
  • “Having children is like living in a frat house. Nobody sleeps, everything’s broken and there’s a lot of throwing up.” —Ray Romano

Well, all isn’t fun and games as we know. Fatherhood requires a lifetime of understanding, patience, compassion, discipline and so much more. When we look at the natural progression of life, there’s no one more important than the person who will mentor, guide, advise, counsel or have your back than a dad. Even during the years that you think they don’t know much – through the years when they see that your knowledge is immeasurable – until the final days of life’s journey, when they become the parent and we become a child again. With that in mind, here’s another quote from a song lyric by Keith Urban. Eventually we see how much they’ve contributed to who we are.

“And I only hope when I have my own family that every day, I see a little more of my father in me.” – Keith Urban

Posted in aging, Family, parenting | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments