AGING IN THE AGE OF TECHNOLOGY

Posted on July 10, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

I am of the age when cookies were things you put in the oven and then in your mouth. I know about the Internet, although I haven’t even begun to explore all it has to offer. I’m aware that clicking on a butterfly means to open the computer, but I always thought butterflies were good pollinators – not part of technology. I know that autocorrect has replaced white out. As I ponder over the effects of technology and the aging brain, I can’t help but be amazed by God’s intricate design of the world I live in. Because of His divine intervention, there is order in chaos – beauty in the workings of the human body – geometric patterns that make up the smallest creatures. There is no computer or Artificial Intelligence that can even come close to what He has created. Still, we continue to think we know better than Him. We work hard to become like Him. We struggle with problems that only lead to more problems and less solutions.

At one time, mankind was the image of God, but the angel who thought he could compete with and win over Him, entered the picture and created doubt in the minds of Adam and Eve. A doubt that would lead to their downfall and therefore the fall of the human race. The division that occurred in that moment would never be unified until God’s love prevailed.

I must admit, I’ve become somewhat of a slave to this new technology. I used to scoff at the younger generation as they seemed to be glued to their devices. Now that my hearing is failing, I rely on my phone to keep me in the loop. I can still type and communicate via text or email on a daily basis. My husband has threatened to send me an email rather than talking to me personally. I love the ability to search for information and get results immediately. I use my computer to find recipes – to talk to old friends – to encourage others – to discover how to tend to my hydrangeas. It is like having all those information sources right at your fingertips. I can even see my church services on live stream if I can’t attend in person.

Like everything that serves a good purpose in life, there is also a seedy side. The Internet can bring things to view that will tempt, corrupt, lead to sin and temptation. It can be a source of crime for those who want to scam others out of their daily bread. It can create a false image of what is expected in this crazy world and lead people away from the truth of God’s love. That being said, I pray that we stay aware of what our children are viewing as well as what we expose ourselves too. God is still in control of the universe. We have a responsibility to pass that truth on to future generations.

I have no idea how the world will change in the next fifty years. I don’t plan to be around that long. I pray that people will return to God. He is our Creator, our Comforter, our hope for salvation and the One who provides for a future with Him.

Posted in aging, God, technology | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

THE END GAME

Posted on July 9, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Remnants of a frozen past, dangling branches kissed at last,

Dreams of respite from the cold, thoughts of ever growing old,

Sapped of life and wanting more, grasping for that final door,

Then when all seems lost and done, Heaven opens with the sun,

Warmer days and star filled nights, lift you to new glorious heights,

Earth gives way to life anew, fresh, green buds are breaking through,

Smells of earth and wind and rain, dance within your tired brain.

Washing clean the pangs of death, giving you new life – new breath,

Then comes summer blazing hot, scorching, searing afterthought,

Lazy days of contemplation, dawdling in God’s sweet creation,

Thoughts of everlasting peace, mingled with a temperate breeze,

Then the earth begins to dry, things give up and start to die,

Even then the beauty springs, colors burst and heaven sings,

The final act, the seasons done, nothing is new under the sun.

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, Life, seasons | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

AI VERSUS GOD

Posted on July 8, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

 ” But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. 5 For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:4-5

I am not a scientist. I am not a theologian. I’m certainly not an intellectual. I am a creation of an Almighty God who has breathed life into me. My thoughts and actions are not stellar. I have a long way to go in that department. My journey has taken me in lots of directions and given me obstacles to overcome, battles to fight, relationships to nourish and share and so much more. My lifetime – 82 years of it – has definitely been a work in progress. I would venture to say that every human being has gone through much the same thing. To create another me or another you, would be such a complex endeavor, that it would never match that which was originally made by an all knowing God.

As we hear about artificial intelligence – an oxymoron of sorts – I can’t help wondering if we are on another trip into a realm that we have no control over. We can make cookie cutter images of things, but can we sort through all the intricacies of a human life so perfectly, that every detail is a mirror image of the original? There are bound to be things forgotten, seemingly unimportant or unnecessary. A carbon copy of the original is going to be flawed in some way. As the technology of today has advanced in the minds of men, are we on the brink of trying to become God? This was the question that the devil placed before Eve when he put doubt in her mind and that of her husband.

In my posts this week, I plan to address the question and hope that others will enlighten me. Like I said, I’m not an expert on any of this. Yet, I believe that whenever we try to place ourselves in God’s shoes, we’re inviting disaster. We can never even come close to His power, His omniscience nor His consistency in our lives. As a grandma of three young adults who are currently starting their own life journeys, I’ve seen so much danger in the technology of today. I’ve also seen the benefits of this knowledge and how it can help humanity. It’s kind of like a double-edged sword. On one side it can be used for good and on the other – evil is lurking right around the corner.

Those who hope in God will grow in wisdom and strength. I may be naive, but I truly believe that God is in control of all things in my life. His hand is guiding me. His power is strengthening me. His eternal knowledge is beyond human comprehension. The world is in His hands. This I know is true, because God has spoken to us through His Holy Word, the Bible.

Posted in aging, change, technology | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 14 Comments

SUMMER PONDERINGS . . .

Posted on July 7, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER©

As you sit by quiet waters and try to escape the madness of every day, you set the world apart from your thoughts – escaping temporarily – dreaming – feeling the intensity of calmness – simply thinking about nothing but enjoying the sensation of your environment.  Life without care, for a short time.  All that’s necessary is one quiet moment to run away from responsibility – to live in the extraordinary gift of contemplation.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, summer | Tagged , , , , , , | 6 Comments

GOD BE WITH MY FAMILY . . .

Posted on July 6, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The past few weeks have been filled with family time, sharing good times, laughter, old memories and new ones made. Getting together as a family for special days has always been a part of lives. We aren’t all together each time, but we are a family, nonetheless. Over time, families grow and start their own adventures through life, but they will always be alive in our thoughts and prayers. Each time we get together is like recharging our batteries for a while. Watching grandchildren become adults and begin their own lives is a treasure everyone should possess. There’s nothing like grandparenting. It’s like a second chance at parenting for us.

Today the house is empty except for the two of us. Each day is a gift for us and we thank Jesus for everyone He blesses. For us the family visits are like another gift. They can seem few and far between – because we have so much free time to think about it. Our hopes of hearing from them become is much like becoming children ourselves again. We grow to rely on them, lean on them, trust them, wait for them, long for them and need them as they once needed us. I guess that’s called the circle of life, but each circle leaves an empty spot when it’s gone.

Our oldest daughter and her oldest son came for a short visit last week. We packed a lot into two days – mostly talking about the future. I found this poem I’d written the year she and her family moved to a faraway state. Our other two other children and their families live closer so we get to see more of them, but each one of them were originally entrusted to us by God. The gift of family and the path you travel together in their younger years, will not be forgotten when they grow old too.

GOD BE WITH MY CHILDREN – Poetry by Kathy Boecher

The moments have turned into days, the days turn into years.
We’ve watched you grow. We’ve seen success and now there come the tears.
I know I should be happy for all that lies ahead.
A family together – a new life to start – united again in God’s strong arms –
so why do these tears I shed?
It’s so hard to say goodbye to a family you call your own.
When they were young and starting out, who would have ever known,
that some distant day they would leave and cut their path alone.
I know The Lord will be with them, but my heart is breaking inside.
Take care of them, Lord, protect and sustain and with them always abide.

Posted in aging, Family, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

WHERE EAGLES DARE . . .

Posted on July 5, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The remnants of spent fireworks can be found in backyards and on city streets. The sounds of celebration have diminished. Old Glory may still wave, but has anything changed? Chances are the sounds of liberty and freedom have dwindled over time. We have lost much of the afterglow that originally followed the United States Declaration of independence so many years ago. There is still a glimmer of patriotism alive in our country, which needs to be rekindled by someone who truly loves America and realizes the cost of freedom. I pray that God will provide the right leadership and reignite our pride in the sacrifices paid for our liberty.

ART BY PAUL & POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER

Majestic eagle spreads his wings, a span of eight feet wide,

The pinions of those glorious wings with heaven soon collide,

His feathers made for reaching God, they also serve to save,

Protection for those learning how to take off and be brave.

We’re like those fledgling youngsters, flailing to keep the pace,

We need the stronger presence of the One who takes our place,

We turn our eyes up to the skies, praying for God’s own hand,

To take us far beyond our realm, into another land.

We soar so high with wings outspread, His breath will intercede,

We fail at times, but He’s right there to care for every need,

The gates to heaven open wide, we’ll meet Him face to face,

He grants our rest in His strong wings knowing we’ve won the race.

Posted in 4th of July, America, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on WHERE EAGLES DARE . . .

BRING PATRIOTISM BACK TO AMERICA . . .

Posted on July 4, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

Memories of the Fourth of July from years gone by, flood my mind this morning. As I look out my window, there’s a grey haze in the sky. Humid air infuses the atmosphere. Summer heat kisses the ground with glistening dew. It’s a day of family events occurring to honor our country on its 248th birthday. Bands will play patriotic music. The flag will be displayed. Barbeque grills will fire up and people will gather for another holiday, but will we really consider what has happened to this fledgling nation over its short history? Many will don their red, white and blue apparel. Some will salute the flag as it’s displayed. Some will scoff at the changes that have occurred while others will continue to honor the founding of this nation.

A few years ago, we moved into our current address. We live in one of the first towns to be established in our state. We inhabit a home that was built in 1885 – after our nation went through a civil war which divided families and continues to wage even today as opinions become separated again. The small-town atmosphere seems to be more conducive to patriotism, but this attribute is not restricted to one part of the country our another. It’s something that lives within the hearts and minds of its citizens. In less than three centuries those feelings have been tested to the max.

Mark Twain once said of the United States, “Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.” That sentence is a good reminder of what our government was intended for. Over time the good intentions of our founding fathers have been tarnished to facilitate the greed, the narcissism, the bravado and popularity of those who would lead us.

Patriotism means that we collectively are proud of our freedoms.  We stand when the “Star Spangled Banner” is played. We even try to belt out the words with our faltering voices.  We remember the many battles fought, just during our lifetime, to protect our rights and honor democracy.  This one day in which we honor our nation, isn’t just about fireworks and celebration.  It’s about the ability to do those things without fear of repercussion.

As we pack up another Independence Day, let’s keep our patriotism alive a little longer than just a few days.  George Washington referred to America as a “Great experiment.” Any experiment needs to be nurtured, refined, polished and occasionally changed to fit the times, but the original template should never be forgotten. Many wars, many lives, too many tough life memories have paid the price for our freedoms. Let us never put away our patriotism.

GOD BLESS AMERICA – AGAIN!

Posted in Uncategorized | 9 Comments

LET FREEDOM RING . . .

Posted on July 3, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty.” John F. Kennedy

I watched the movie, “The Patriot” again recently.  It’s become a tradition, just like watching, “Ten Commandments” during Passover and Easter. The truth of overcoming hardship, deposing tyrannical rule, putting down a villainous adversary and doing so with truth on your side is something most of us hope for.

In the movie, we see a young widowed father of seven children, put away his younger days of valiant fighting in lieu of a career as a southern plantation owner and farmer.  He has had his fill of war.  Like most, who have fought the good fight, he is weary of it.  Testing the heart of a father, by taking the life of one of his children, is enough for this man to take up the sword once again.

This was the story of most patriots.  They were ordinary men and boys, fighting for the right to live freely.  Today, our freedom comes at an even higher price.  We’ve become accustomed to the liberties so many have fought and died for. We take for granted the ability to speak as we wish; to publish or air news stories in order to get ratings; to be tolerant of all kinds of behavior (even that which goes against God’s Law) for the sake of political correctness; to live as we wish without regard to civil law and even show disrespect to those who try to protect it. Our liberties have in fact given way to a carte blanche way of thinking for many. Licentiousness and arrogance have in fact taken the place of responsibility and the law.  By doing so, we have let the flag touch the ground and be trampled upon.

The final scenes of “The Patriot” show the father carrying the shredded flag which his oldest son rescued when he died in battle.  The “lost cause,” as the fight was often referred to, wasn’t lost at all.  The British army was defeated by a rag tag bunch of patriots with the fire of freedom burning within them.

As citizens of a free country, we continue to fight for that liberty to be a democracy by ruling ourselves. Our forefathers were willing to die for the cause.  Every day we’re confronted with life-or-death situations.  Are we ready to give our lives to fight for the same cause today? As followers of Christ, we know that our freedom from sin was also paid for with the greatest price ever – the blood of the Son of God took our sins to the cross and buried them forever.  Because of that we can truly say, we are free!

Posted in 4th of July, America | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

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.

Posted in aging, Faith, perseverance | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

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