IF IT’S BROKE – FIX IT . . .

Posted on July 15, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

The events of the past weekend are still fresh in our minds. There will be differences of opinion, conspiracy theories, words of speculation and the possibility of terrorism, but one thing is certain. When America endures a tragedy, they almost always come together to rebuild, to restore, or fix the problem. To say we are a nation under God, has been challenged over the past decades. We are no longer a Christian nation, as some have said. We are indeed a nation of many beliefs, nationalities and countries. A melting pot which has grown in size over time. The resources of those nations = the ideals – the beliefs – the history – should bring us together rather than dividing us.

To me, America is still a nation under God. The statement remains in our Pledge of Allegiance. In my opinion, God is still in control and His plan will move forward, without our interference.

“A house divided against itself cannot stand.” I believe this government cannot endure, permanently half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved — I do not expect the house to fall — but I do expect it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing or all the other.”

These words were spoken by Abraham Lincoln in his bid for the senate.  Our country was in the throes of debates over slavery and a massive influx of immigrants from foreign lands.  Both of these things were pitting brother against brother and eventually resulted in the Civil War which killed over 600,000 Americans.

This phrase was also used by Patrick Henry when the American Revolution was being fought.  It was originally spoken by Jesus after being accused by the Pharisees of being demon possessed.  He had just released a man from his own demons.

in Matthew 12:25, Jesus simply stated that the devil would not fight against himself.

“Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand,”

Whenever there is a tragedy in our nation, it seems to me that Americans are at their best. They renew their love of country and set aside their differences for a while. Instead of waiting for a tragedy, maybe we should put those words into everyday practice. The Statue of Liberty opens her arms to all nations as a place free from persecution and rebellion. We are all immigrants in fact. That is a gift that makes us unique from other countries.

As we listen to the rhetoric, I pray that God will guide us to have open minds – to research the news that comes at us at a rapid pace – to sort through the words and discern what is the best direction for our country. I love America. She has been through a lot in her short history. It’s time for us to return to our roots and begin to work together for the good of all.

Dear Heavenly Father, You are in control of all things. You have the power to change the course of history and to help us learn from past mistakes. Please heal our land from the stark differences that are in the minds of its citizens, and may we trust in You to deliver us from the evil that the devil continues to spread. In Jesus name, we pray. Amen!

Posted in America, patriotism, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

THE HEART OF THIS COUNTRY . . .

Posted on July 14, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

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 from the dead.
That evil creature walks the earth, in shadows and in darkness.
He preys upon our weaknesses. He thrives upon our starkness.


He lurks about like lions prowl and forage for their food,
But never will he find surcease for he can do no good.
The day will come when victory will come 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 need do.

The price for my salvation was won with your own blood,

You died for me, you cleansed my soul, you did it for my good, Except to spread your Word of truth and love as you loved me.
Now shield me from all evil and set my spirit free.

Posted in America, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, country | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

HOW WAS YOUR WEEK?

Posted on July 13, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

God has a plan. The plan might include situations or problems that we don’t want to face. Maybe we can work through them alone, but most of the time we need someone to talk to, someone to encourage us, someone to lean on. As we’ve personally learned in our years of marriage and especially the last couple years, challenges are a necessary component to getting us through this thing called a lifetime. Each day shows us that we have a wonderful family that is doing so much to make life easier for us. We have amazing friends who have proven to be great prayer warriors and continue to lift us up. We have fond memories of years gone by and are trying to spend our remaining days, weeks, months and possibly years together. Above all, we have a Creator who has laid out the plan and is refining us and preparing us for eternal life.

In looking at my datebook for this past week, I see crossed out appointments, rearranged meetings, new dates set, a lot of notes and details that suddenly are changed for some reason or another. We can’t always count on things to go as we plan, but we can trust the plan God laid out for us at the beginning of time. All the trials we would face are in that plan. All the difficulties – the pain and suffering – the losses and successes – lives and death are included for a purpose. Tell that to the one who is going through those things. Don’t expect them to understand what that purpose is. None of us knows what the future will bring, but God does.

We all have days when we want to throw up our hands and scream. There are moments when we lose hope and give up. We are not merely marionettes, led by the great puppeteer in the sky. God has given us the ability to work through problems, the mental ability to figure things out, the physical prowess to labor through and the emotional strength to survive them. Our natural tendency is to plan, to carry out our plan and to achieve what we began. With God beside us, all things are possible – even those we never dared to dream.

So, my week in review. I had a bunch of ups and downs like most of us do. There were difficult decisions, times of sadness, times of laughter, peace and quiet, time to dig in my garden, to see new life and cherish the blessings of God. Take the hand of God. He will take yours and guide you in the path that He has laid out for you. He gives you the strength and wisdom to follow your dreams, to make new memories and to look forward to life with Him in heaven.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

Posted in aging, anxiety, Encouragement | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

FRUIT OF THE VINE

Posted on July 12, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

John 5:1  “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.”

I want to know you, Lord.  I want to feel your arms around me, comforting, protecting, loving me.

I long for your presence in my life.

Your Word connects me to you.

Your Passion shows me how important I was to you.

Your resurrection assures me that I will live forever with you.

You come to me when most I need you and yet I know that you are always there.

I can try to hide, but you are so much a part of me, I can’t escape.

Such a love is so hard to understand.  There is nothing like it.

We are connected like the grapes connect to the vine.

Help me to find that intimate connection, where I know,

You are the vine.  I draw life from you.

Help me to know you better every day, so that when that final day comes,

I will be ready for you.

Posted in Art & poetry by Kathy Boecher, Faith, Jesus | Tagged , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

BECOMING PART OF THE 21st CENTURY . . .

Posted on July 11, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

This will be my last post on technology for the time being. For years now, my kids have been telling me to get with the 21st Century and become familiar with the world of technology. I’ve given in, for the most part. In my years of writing, I’ve come up from a manual typewriter to a word processor to a computer. I used to erase words physically from the typewritten page. I made carbon copies and covered my fingers with black. I learned shorthand in school and got my first office job because of it. When I realized I couldn’t translate the shorthand, I was moved on to a Dictaphone machine. Thankfully, in those days I could still hear. Now I can actually speak to my computer, and it will transcribe my thoughts as I think them. It will even correct misspelled words and check my use of grammar. If I have enough money, I can actually publish my own work. That happened once, so I can say that I’m a published author.

With all the technology and instant information, the art of communication has taken a big hit.  We’ve grown to depend on text messaging, e-mailing, Facebook, Instagram and other sites on the internet to speak to one another.  What’s missing?  You can’t read a person’s body language, see the expression on their face or really hear what they’re saying. The skill of conversation has been obliterated by these social networks – and yes, I use them too.

Having taught public speaking and drama, I know the value of the spoken word and physical interaction between people.  You don’t get that in a text message.  You can read all kinds of things into an e-mail.  In trying to push forward into the rest of this century, we’re really losing something important.  Face to face communication allows us to listen, to visualize and to speak spontaneously or with thought.  Hopefully thinking before we speak.

One of our greatest difficulties, as we age, is the loss of hearing and sight.  Without them we become frustrated, feel lost and helpless.  We watch a television show and try to lip read, but that usually doesn’t work.  Closed captioning isn’t always reliable either. We watch a sunset with cataracts in our eyes and something is missing.  As one who has been gradually losing the ability to hear, I can attest to this fact. The truth is that eventually we lose our physical senses and one day the whole electronic world may die along with them. I still have all my original body parts, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the cartoon attached to this post, might prove true someday.

In our relationships, the key to unlocking a good one is communication.  If we’re not willing to listen, we’re downgrading the importance of the person were talking to.  We’re setting ourselves on a higher plain than the one we’re speaking to, before we even have a chance to know them.  We’re making faulty judgments.  Open conversation allows us the chance to see, hear and act in an intelligent way.  For example, how can you say, “I love you,” in a text message and have it hold any truth.  If you do it in person, your sincerity can be heard, seen and felt.

Take a few days to spend time with those you care about.  Make it a point to communicate verbally with those you work with.  Put your electronics away for a few weeks and realize you can survive without them.  In fact, a whole new world might just open up for you. By the way, the Bible is also available as an app for your phone or computer. Open it today and discover a whole new world that goes far beyond the 21st Century.

Posted in acting, change, technology | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

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!

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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!

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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