PALLIATIVE CARE?

Posted on August 24, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

What exactly is Palliative Care? We’re learning. For us, we are just beginning the journey into Palliative Care. This program is different from hospice, because it provides care for those with chronic disease – those who have untreatable Cancer – those who have multiple health issues. It also provides support for family members. It is not a death sentence – for no one can determine the length of our days except for God Himself. We have decided to proceed with this next step. Paul has Cancer. His other health issues include a faulty heart valve with stenosis, he’s had two minor strokes, he has an aneurysm and an implanted catheter in his bladder. Last year alone he spent time in the hospital almost every month. I could go into more detail with some of the minor issues, but I think you get the point. Generally, you wouldn’t think there’s anything wrong with him. He looks great. His numbers are all close to normal. He continues to have a wonderfully creative mind, that won’t stop producing art or devising ideas for invention. He loves to tell his stories to whomever will listen to them. His almost 82 years have been filled with adventure, innovation, excitement, discouragement, rebuilding, restoration, faith, love, family and all the things that make life worth living.

Death is in the future for all of us. We don’t like to think about it, but it looms over us like a swinging pendulum, just waiting for that final swing. When you know that your days are numbered, but you still don’t know how many you have left, you try to squeeze every last drop of living into the final days. However, you don’t always feel up to par. You’re tired, you have pain in various places, you feel discouraged. You don’t have enough pep to get out of bed. When you have faith that God has another life waiting for you after death, you almost can’t wait to get there. So why do we go through the pain of living? Perhaps our lessons learned can help someone else get through their journey. Maybe someone else’s situation can help us through ours.

Palliative care is not the end of life. It simply makes life a little easier for those who would rather not be hospitalized for each symptom that might occur. There is no limit on the time you can take advantage of this program. There is medical care available 24/7. You can receive counseling, help with simple tasks and many other things to make your life a little easier.

We’re not giving up. We continue to pray for God’s will to be done. If it’s time for Paul to be in heaven, God will determine that. If there is a cure, God can provide that as well. Our prayers have power. We will not discount God’s intervention in life or death. We still believe in miracles, because they continue to happen when we least expect them.

Posted in aging, cancer, God | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 11 Comments

THE ANGELS AMONG US

Posted on August 23, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Do you ever feel that God has deserted you? When I start thinking that way, I need to remember all the times when God’s angels interceded in my life. There was the time I worked at a loan company and two masked robbers came in brandishing guns and demanding cash.  I was only 21 years old. My young life flashed before my eyes as I handed over the key to the cash drawer. Then I was told to hit the floor and put my hands over my head. As I sat there, all my years flashed before me. I felt certain I was going to be found dead. I survived.

There was another time. My body laid lifeless on the operating table after a minor surgery. My blood pressure had dropped to dangerous levels. I felt my life slipping away as I witnessed the entire scene from above.  God sent angels of mercy in the form of skilled medical personnel. I survived.

When I thought everything was running smoothly, I realized that it wasn’t. My husband’s successful business failed. We were faced with life changing challenges. It seemed that we might be living in a cardboard box somewhere. Our home went into foreclosure. We left bankruptcy court with a few dollars between us. Those we considered to be true friends, deserted us. We had to start from scratch to rebuild our lives. Those who truly were our friends, helped us find work and rebuild. I believe they were angels too. We survived.

I’m certain that everyone I’ve met in this life has entertained angels without even realizing it. We all face tough times. We face problems every day. We are challenged in our faith life and we turn away from God. He knows all about trouble. He saw His creation fall into sin. He saw the ugliness that once was a paradise. He saw how mankind changed and continues to do so. Still, He loves us so much that He provides a way for us to be with Him forever. Because of that, we all survive.

God doesn’t promise that life will be easy if we follow Him. In fact, it may get worse, but He makes it very easy to hope for eternity in heaven. He is waiting there for us, surrounded by an army of angels. WE WILL SURVIVE!

I THINK WE ALL LEARN FROM EACH OTHER, SO IF YOU HAVE A SURVIVAL STORY, OR ONE THAT INCLUDES AN ENCOUNTER WITH ANGELS, LET’S HEAR FROM YOU!

Posted in aging, angels, armor of God, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 15 Comments

FUZZY VISION

Posted on August 21, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Days like today, when the sun is shrouded by a heavy haze, when the air is filled with smoke from other parts of the world, when no amount of washing will eliminate the dirt and grunge that fuzzes up our vision, I am beginning to wrap my mind around the reality of the challenges to face today. This week is another gift from God. Each day is a bonus. Life, as we once lived it, is entering another chapter. I’m confident that God is in control, but there are still moments when I wonder – when my faith is being tested – when I hope that I won’t lose it – when tears fall faster than I can control them – when thoughts about a new future haunt me. I know that God has this, but there are times when I wish He’d let me in on His plan.

As I look out my window today, I see an accumulation of muck from road construction, polluted air, thirsty plants that need tending. I think about my need to take care of those windows, but I know it is a thankless job and will have to be repeated in a week or so. We are living in kind of a shell of our environment. As we grow older the shell shrinks. We can only go so far. Our life goals have been achieved – well maybe not all of them. Our bodies have limitations. Our minds work slower. Everything is in slow motion. Still, beyond those windows, is a beautiful world, created by an amazing God. On the other side of the grime is a place to continue living. We will go on. We will run in fields of emerald grass. Our bodies will be revived and restored and we will inherit the paradise that God originally planned for us. The windows have been thoroughly cleaned. There is no more sin. Jesus washed it all away.

“THROUGH MY WINDOW,” By Kathy Boecher

A journey through a crystal pane of light and glorious sun,

Separated by a wall that’s conceived within my mind,

A longing leads my heart into a place where I can run,

A place to hide, to bear my soul, a place I’ll never find.

I wander through this wilderness, surrounded by my fears,

I close the world outside my door and let no others in,

The days go by and swiftly ebb, though dreams may dry my tears,

I will not capture peace until the Lord comes back again.

In His magnificent glory, He’ll cut right through the clouds,

His angels will encircle Him, the saints are at His side,

They sing their loud alleluias and shout His name out loud,

My fears will melt, my heart will soar, with Him I’ll now abide.

Posted in aging, anxiety, cancer, Poetry by Kathy Boecher | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on FUZZY VISION

RELINQUISHING CONTROL

Posted on August 19, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Last night, we topped off our Friday with a visit to our favorite pizza place. This has been a mainstay for us and holds many memories of good times, good conversation and good food. Yesterday, was another of those chapters in this new journey we’re on with Cancer. A visit to palliative care, which lasted for 80 minutes, described exactly how this program works in helping us through some of the struggles of this disease. There is a complete staff at our disposal of social workers, nurses, doctors, emergency care, home health care and help for the families of those going through cancer. Paul, with the help of God, family, friends and prayer, has determined not to pursue further treatment for his illness. He has been struggling with his health on many levels for almost three years now, with the last year opening doors to serious issues that could also take his life. We’ve all made peace with this decision and are counting on God’s continuing care for all of us as we take this final step.

Giving things over to God is not an easy task. We try so hard to manage our lives with all our might. We want to be a part of the task. We forget that God has already laid out the plan and knows the outcome. In making this decision, it was like giving complete control to God. That final surrender that takes a lifetime to relinquish. I keep thinking of Jacob as he wrestled with God so many centuries ago. Did he really think he had a chance of winning? God loved him enough to save his life but left him with a disability that he carried with him as a reminder of his confrontation. When we try to manage things completely on our own, our decisions don’t always take us in the right direction. When we allow God to lead the way, we are guaranteed a perfect result.

Now is the time for complete trust. We are not discounting the fact that God can restore Paul’s health and give him many more years of living, but in the meantime, we’re doing what we do best – together. Our little journeys and visits with old friends are creating new memories of hope and faith. There are still tears – a mountain of them – as I try to imagine my life without him, but I know that God has that all figured out too. Trust is based on an intimate relationship. We have that connection when we rely on our God to walk with us all the way.

Posted in aging, cancer, Faith | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

YELLOWSTONE MEMORIES

Posted on August 19, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

THE ROAD TO HELL

When you’ve hit the bottom of that dark and lonely road,

When your mind is troubled and you’re ready to explode,

When the days seem endless and the nights are oh so long,

When you can’t tell the difference between what’s right and wrong.

You struggle through this life and can’t seem to get ahead,

You live in the pit of hell and wish that you were dead,

But God won’t let you fall from grace, He will see you through,

He’ll lift you from the darkness, He has a plan for you.

Don’t ever think there’s no way out, the skies are blue above,

His tears will cover over you and shower you with love.

NEVER GIVE UP

Spineless cowards fill their minds with delusions of grandeur.

They hide behind threats and words instilling fear.

They conjure up the forces of evil to accomplish their deeds.

They will not be silenced. Their voices grow stronger.

Their numbers grow and they seem to be gaining strength.

The God of Abraham will never be silenced. He is the maker of all things.

He sent His only Son to be our champion – To fight our battles –

To snuff out the devil and his minions – to dominate the power of evil.

We need to turn to Him again. Through Him our strength will grow.

To Him the glory and power and honor shall remain.

Posted in aging, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, cancer | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

SIGNS

Posted on August 18, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

There are signs all around us, to lead us, to warn us, to create interest, to sell something to us, and yet the signs that really matter don’t always really matter to us. We read the speed limit signs, for example, but how often do we actually obey them? Advertising lures us with hopes of changing our lives, giving us something we don’t need or making false promises. There are signs for garage sales, which have cost many an accident. Signs are seen everywhere as we go through life. There are even signs telling us to buy their signs.

Many choose to seek signs that will alter their future. They place their faith in things of the world to make plans – to determine their goals – achieve them – or put themselves into a place of power. It’s interesting to me that people will turn their future over to things of the world, but they have a problem putting faith in the Creator of the universe. We continue to try and control things ourselves. We want to have a part in our own destiny, without realizing that our fate is already sealed. That should be a comfort, but to most folks it’s a copout. Instead of turning our lives over to God, we try to manage everything ourselves. This truly gets in the way of our relationship with our heavenly Father. His plans never fail. His promises are never broken. He is at our side through life and death.

Wouldn’t it be nice if God gave us a physical sign when we’re going through some difficulty? If He just wrote a note in the heavens that gave us assurance that life would get better. I think that’s a normal hope, but if we knew the future, we might not like what it holds. There are going to be problems, worries, disasters, disappointments and fears ahead. God is not a genie in a magic lamp, that gives us all that we want. However, he has placed signs all over the place to lead us to Him. Take out your Bible, dust it off and take a look at the pages carefully. The signs are within that book. They are also in the realm of creation. God is everywhere. He loves us to the max. We have a perfect home waiting in heaven. His love is unconditional. His own Son suffered and died so that we could have eternal life. He came back to life to show us that we will never die either.

When Jesus walked the earth, the leaders of the church tried to make Him look bad by asking for signs of the end times. Jesus answered them with these words from Matthew 16:2-3

“He answered them, â€œWhen it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.’  And in the morning, ‘It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times.” 

Signs of the end times are all around us. We only need to watch the evening news. However, Jesus also told us that we will not know the hour or the day. It will come without our knowing as a thief in the night, so we need to be prepared NOW. Trust in His inerrant Word. He will give you peace and comfort through His inspired words.

Posted in aging, America, End times, Faith | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

POTPOURRI THURSDAY

Posted on August 17, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Today is throwback Thursday, but I’ve got nothing to throw back, so I’m going to talk about a mess of different things – a potpourri of useless information, which fills our minds and makes us cranky – produces a chuckle – lifts our spirits – helps us forget about all the icky stuff that permeates our world today.

Did you ever wonder if the Hokey Pokey is what it’s all about? I mean, if all there was to life was turning ourselves around, wouldn’t we all be turning in circles every day? Then there’s the thought of bumping into each other as we turn ourselves around. Utter chaos.

Or how about this? “Follow your heart,” How can we do that? Our heart is inside of us and to follow it, we’d have to get outside of ourselves. I suppose that’s a good place to start.

Here’s another one – “When nothing is going right – go left.” That might be good advice, unless you’re on a roundabout. You’ll be there all day.

“As you get older, three things happen. First you lose your memory and the other two I can’t remember.” This is especially true for people of my age. I often go on a quest for something in another room, and by the time I get there, I forget what I was going for. Or I’ll write something down in my planner and when I check it a few weeks later, I have no idea what I was thinking.

This actually happened to me once. I was in a play where I was supposed to say, “out of the frying pan, into the fire” and reversed the sentence to “out of the fire and into the frying pan.” Thankfully, I realized my mistake and got myself out of the fire and back into the frying pan.

Funny things always happen to me – or I simply find humor in normal things. Either way, I seem to wind up with lots of funny material to use in my playwriting or blog posts. I’ve gone to work with two different shoes or socks on. When I was working, that was a strange thing to do. Today it’s a fashion statement. I’ve left a whole package of frozen bread dough loaves on the counter to thaw. When I returned home, the dough had made a path all around the sink, stove and other areas in the kitchen. I’ve made balloon animals out of surgical gloves while waiting in the ER. I’ve mixed colors in the laundry, and it all turns into tie dye stuff. I actually believe commercials that tell you their product will clean, shine, wax, make like new and remove acne and unsightly warts. I mean none of those things are really going to happen with one product, but if you’re gullible like me, you believe them. I should know better. I was the wife of an advertising director.

This morning I woke up – watched a televised devotion – put my teeth in my mouth and combed my hair. Thankfully I did that in the right order. When I sat down to write my blog, I drew a blank. Most of the time I try to give encouragement or inspire someone or spread God’s love with another. Today I had nothing. I came across the image above and this happened. The muse came to life and there you have it.

It’s Throwback Thursday, so laugh a little. It’s the best medicine around.

Posted in aging, Humor, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

EVERYTHING HAS A PURPOSE

Posted on August 16, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Almost seven years ago, we were holding garage sales to downsize for a move to a smaller house – about half the size of what we were living in. Both my husband and I are artists and have collected many things during our long marriage. I’m quick to get rid of things, while he seems to hang on to them for future use. We sorted through a lifetime together and put stuff in piles for recycling – giving away – throwing away or selling. The task was monumental to say the least.

Here we are, seven years later, up to our ears again in stuff – much of the same stuff we tried to downsize back then. Only we’ve added to the stuff. Why do we collect so many things over time and why is it so hard to let go of them? King Solomon, from the Bible, had everything. He had several wives – imagine trying to manage more than one. He had wealth, servants, a beautiful home with all the comforts to go with it. He was on top of the world, yet he felt that everything was meaningless in life. I suppose when you have it all, you tend to think that way. When we save things that have meaning for us, we’re doing so because those things have a memory connection, or possibly a future purpose.

We’ll be downsizing again, I imagine. Life is full of stuff. Sorting through it all is a greater task than I can imagine. We have tons of art, scripts, poetry, writings, clothes we’ll never wear again, paperwork which should have been shredded years ago. The piles are rising once more, but each of those things had a purpose or may again. Like us, the things we add will serve a purpose for us or for someone else. So, there is nothing new under the sun, but what is above the sun is what God has planned for our final purpose. Heaven is our home.

Posted in aging, purpose, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

EXPERIMENTATION- GENETICS – CONSPIRACY -BRAINWASHING

Posted on August 15, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

When life slows down and you are moving closer to the end of it, you spend a lot of time in front of the tube. For us, it’s old movies – either cowboys and outlaws – soldiers and war – inspirational stuff based on real life – and occasionally something a little different. The other night we watched the second version of “The Manchurian Candidate,” with Denzel Washington and Meryl Streep. This was a 1972 remake of a film starring Laurence Harvey and Frank Sinatra made in 1962. Both films were based on the Richard Condon novel of 1959. It was a political thriller about brainwashing, conspiracy and politics. The movie stirred up quite a controversy and left the term, “Manchurian Candidate,” remain as describing a political candidate who is being used by an enemy nation or controlled by mind bending as a puppet to do their bidding. It is not to be taken lightly when referring to a Manchurian Candidate.

On that same date we had seen the oncologist and were told about possible genetic testing for the Cancer Paul has.

It occurred to me that we can bend our own thinking when it comes to our health, our country, the news media, our politicians, our teachers and leaders. We can be led to believe that a certain treatment “might” help in future treatments and eventual cure. Certainly, I am not claiming that the Manchurian Candidate has anything to do with health care, but it could be a possibility. Especially if you believe in stuff like that.

God created us before we were even born. Each intricate design was manufactured by Him. He knows what we are capable of and how our lives will go. When one of our parts don’t work, we seek medical attention and for the most part we trust what they have to tell us. Yet are they making patients feel guilty if they determine they don’t wish further treatment? God is capable of restoring health. He brings us back to life when there is no breath left in us. He directs our path in life. He gives us talents and gifts for us to share with others. We can count on His promises and truth. He may allow life to continue for many years or decide to end our time of grace on earth so we can enjoy eternity with Him. He alone knows the number of our days.

Well, enough of that. I’m not an expert on any of this, but it sure creates food for thought. Maybe I should think of something else to do besides watching old movies.

Posted in aging, cancer, wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 13 Comments

MISTY

Posted on August 14, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ORIGINAL ART & POETRY BY PAUL T. & KATHY BOECHER©

Shades of grey, crimson and yellow dot the landscape with a magical mist,

Covering a multitude of sins,

I wonder if this is how we look to God?

Covered with a veil of repentance and grief over past sins,

Shrouded in a haze of uncertainty,

No!  God looks at us and sees only His Son and what He has accomplished,

We no longer carry the undistinguishable, the hidden, the burden,

It has all been washed away in the blood of the lamb,

No longer are we seeped in darkness, no longer in fear,

God has forgiven the world through His own Son, Jesus,

Let His love shine through us and bring that light to others.

Posted in anxiety, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, cancer | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

A WEEK IN THE LIFE OF US

Posted on August 13, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Our week was filled to overflowing with visits from dear friends on Monday – a view of another friend’s beautiful garden and short visit with them. Tuesday was spent with church friends at breakfast, made possible by those friends’ generosity. In the afternoon, we opted for a drive to the northern suburbs which led us on somewhat of a wild goose chase. The cornfields were parched and burned by the recent drought conditions. Since it was a spur of the moment, unplanned drive, mostly on the highway, it wasn’t as “picturesque as most of our travels. Wednesday was spent catching up on household chores. The hot, humid temperatures kept us inside. I was able to get a look at the new script for our next Jewels of deNial and did some editing. Wednesday night brought some much-needed rain, with storm damage in some areas of the state.

Thursday brought everything back to life with the last night’s surge of natural water. We were about to make a trip to the drugstore, but instead stopped at McDonald’s for lunch to carry out to Lake George. It was a lovely afternoon – holding hands and sitting on a park bench. We sat for a long time, just gazing at the lake and listening to the silence of nature. For those of you who are old enough to remember the comedians, Ruth Buzzie and Arte Johnson from “Laugh In,” this will make sense to you. After a few moments of silence, Paul asked me if I wanted a walnetto. I thought of that famous park bench scene and was about to respond by hitting him with my purse, but I was able to control the urge. It brought a bit of laughter to a rather serene moment. This is what I love about my man. Even when we face difficulties and tests, he is still able to make me laugh. And vice versa, I might add.

Friday, our youngest daughter drove us to our Oncology appointment and was able to sit in on it. Some of the beautiful places, sights and experiences are presented in the pictures above. Today I watched church online, while Paul attended. I am grateful that we have this option, since I was a bit worn down and hurting from all the physical activity of the week, but it was a blessing to be with the man I love and share magical moments with him – and a walnetto.

Posted in aging, cancer, ENDURING LOVE | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

A LUMP OF CLAY

Posted on August 12, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

There’s something about a lump of clay – it’s malleable. In the right hands, with the right tools, the clay moves and becomes a different form or shape. In the Bible, we’re told that we are the clay and God is the potter. The trouble is, “we” aren’t as easily shaped. We resist change. We try to manage our own outcome. We push against God instead of letting Him create solutions for our most difficult decisions. It is then that God pushes and prods – sometimes painfully for us. Most of the time, to get us back on track. Instead of resisting, we should allow Him to do His best work. He knows what the outcome is, before it ever happens. He wrote the book of our lives. He created us, before we were even born. His craftsmanship is flawless. When we let go of our interference, perfection begins.

As any good pot knows, there will be a fire to face at some point.  We will all have to go through trials in this life, but when we’re finished, we will be ready – for eternity with the Master Potter. It’s hard to imagine ourselves as a lifeless piece of clay or dead mass of rock, but when you see the final result – it’s an amazing piece of imagery.  God takes us and shapes us.  He sometimes has to push us to get us motivated.  There are days when he has to re-shape us – not because He has made any mistakes, but because we are unwilling to surrender to His will.  If clay would be left to its own limits, it would stay the same forever.  With God as the potter – we take on shape – we have purpose – we live. 

Dear Creator God, help me to realize that I need your presence in my life every day.  I know you have created me for a purpose.  As I approach my latter days, allow me to see that you are in control and your love for your creation is amazing.  Help me to surrender to your will, so that your artistry will make me ready for heaven.  Amen!

Sculpture made from a church corner stone of limestone by Paul T. Boecher when he was a senior in high school.

Posted in aging, art by Paul T. Boecher, death, life after death, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

HIDING BEHIND A MASK

Posted on August 11, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

I have a collection of masks. They aren’t really the kind you wear, but they look interesting hanging on a wall. Since we moved seven years ago, those masks remain in the box they were packed in. I haven’t found a place to put them, so they remain hidden. I guess you could say they’re still doing what they were intended to do – hiding.

Women use face masks to improve the condition of their skin, to remove blackheads and exfoliate.  Masks are brought out at Halloween to alter the identity.  Masks are used during surgical events, in a doctor’s office and to prevent germs from passing from one person to another. We all got used to wearing masks for the past three years to prevent the spread of disease. Masks are useful in a lot of ways. They can be used to hide our own personality and display an entirely different one.  Artificial masks can be purchased for just about any occasion.  Masks have been used to hide, to recreate, to reenact, to entertain and to frighten. We often use an invisible mask to hide our inner feelings or to cover up the fear or anxiety that lies within us. These appendages to the face have a long history. The Greeks used them in their dramatic productions to portray specific personality traits. They had not yet learned to project, I guess.

When we go through certain trials of life, we may try to hide behind a mask, but somehow the truth displays itself after a while. When our hearts are breaking and things look hopeless, there is nothing that will obscure our true feelings. At that point we need to hide in Jesus. He is our Savior, our Champion, the Redeemer who has guaranteed us a place in heaven. As age takes over and years paint a completely different mask on our faces, we can always count on Jesus to protect us. He will give us confidence to do what we need to do. He will stay the course through all our difficulties. He will never leave us, and He loves us with unconditional love.

“For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock.” Psalm 27:5 ESV

Posted in aging, anxiety, depression, Faith | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD

Posted on August 10, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Since it’s TBT, I’m sharing a post from 2014. Jesus has been my family’s shepherd for a lifetime. Even when it seems that we’re getting close to the end of our journey here on earth, we can draw comfort from the 23rd Psalm. As I sat beside my dying mother-in-law many years ago, I tried to recite this meaningful poetry to her. She was, what I considered, a Bible scholar. Though she was unconscious at the time, I felt an urgency to get the words exactly right. I probably messed up along the way, but at least I was comforted by the fact that Jesus is our Good Shepherd in all circumstances.

The 23rd Psalm has served our family well.  It was used at the funerals of both of our parents.  It was the sermon theme for our wedding.  We used it again as each of our children were baptized.  It fit every one of those occasions and continues to bless us as we continue our journey through life.

Shepherding isn’t considered a noble profession, but our Lord and King Jesus didn’t come to this earth to rule as a nobleman.  He came in the deepest of humility – born in a place where animals lay their heads.  He grew in the knowledge of His Father through His time in the temple.  He had no real place to call home as He led a nomadic lifestyle in His young adult life.  He ministered to those who needed Him the most – sinners, the sick and the broken in spirit.  He hung on a cross like a common criminal – to pay for the iniquity of all humanity.  He was the final sacrificial lamb who gave His life for all of His sheep – even those who strayed from Him.

When you read the words of this familiar Psalm, you will understand how this imagery lays the ground work for what Jesus continues to do in our lives every day.  He provides for all our physical needs – He leads us out of danger into a quiet place where we will always be under His protection – Even when we face fear, sickness and death, He uses His rod to fend off the fear that comes along with those things.  When it gets so tough that we can’t handle it anymore, He carries us to safety.  When we run away from Him, He will spend hours, days, years if necessary to find us again.  We have peace in knowing that He is always there for us and a confidence that He has a wonderful place waiting for us in eternity.

The Lord is my shepherd – I shall not want!

Posted in aging, cancer, death, eternal life, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

HOLY SPIRIT, LIFE DIVINE

Posted on August 9, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Losing my ability to hear has caused all kinds of issues for me. My communication skills used to be pretty good. I spent a few years teaching children how to speak publicly. I could always memorize lines for a play without difficulty. I taught acting, emoting and use of the voice for many years. Now that has all changed. The use of closed captioning has been somewhat helpful, but even that don’t always help. They often use the wrong word and change the entire meaning of a sentence. Lip reading has been challenging, especially when you’re married to a bearded man. Then there is the problem of causing the one you’re talking with, to wonder what’s wrong with their lips.

I’ve never had too much of a problem writing down my thoughts. I guess this is the way I can express myself without actually speaking the words. There are times though when I can’t find the words – when my mind just won’t wrap around the thoughts intelligently or in a logical way. I have lately been using the wrong word – like the captioning – changing the entire meaning of what I say. For someone who is supposed to be a wordsmith, this can be problematic.

The same is true in my prayer life. There are times when the words pour out of me and other times when I just don’t know what to pray for anymore. At those times I feel like I need someone to help me find the right words. God’s Word tells us, that even on those occasions; He provides an intercessor for us. My words have meaning through the Holy Spirit because He knows my thoughts and my heart. Isn’t it great how God provides for every aspect of our lives – even the words we send to Him? He is our interpreter – our mediator – our inspiration and our power source. We should never underestimate the Holy Spirit.

My God is an awesome God!

Posted in aging, God, Holy spirit, words | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

NEW SUMMER MEMORIES

Posted on August 8, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Last year, at this time, we were on the shores of the river in Hudson, WI, watching young sailors having fun and learning how to sail. It was a beautiful memory of a day. The air was fresh and clean. Paul was involved in a plein air painting event. As the sailors brought their boats to land, it was their turn to watch. The tables were turned as they came to see what Paul was painting. Their young, inquiring minds were full of questions and interest. The artist, of course, took time to share his knowledge of art with them. They even talked about sailing, since the artist had been involved in this activity when he was a young boy. Having spent his summers on the lake, he would often act as crew for some of the regatta contestants that sailed on the weekends.

A year has passed. The artist is still painting. The man has not given up his love for teaching. He has experienced a lifetime of adventures along with adversities and always has a story to tell. He is no longer competing in art contests or hoisting the mainsail. His adventures, however, will never be over. Memories are wonderful ways to capture special moments and that is what we’re trying to do right now. We’ve been so fortunate to have wonderful friends from past and present. God has blessed us to overflowing with them. As we take this new path that God has planned for us, we’re learning to let go, but also to hang onto the important things in life. Family, friendship, relationships, love, comfort, caring, compassion, past accomplishments will remain with us until our new life begins.

Yesterday we spent the morning with friends from a long time ago. Later, we were with more recent friends. Today we will do the same. It has become a way of life for us, that cannot be replaced or taken away. If we have memories in heaven, we will have many to take along with us.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

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PUTTING BOUNCE BACK INTO YOUR STEP

Posted on August 7, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

It’s Monday again. Thank you, Lord, for giving us another week. Each day is a blessing from you, because you are at our side no matter what. When life is filled with anxiety, worry and sadness, You are there. When we celebrate the happy times, the blessings, the hope and promises, You are there. When we struggle with daily problems – when we see the end of life coming – when we hang on to life with all our might – when we cry out to You for any kind of help, You are there. When our last hours approach, when our aching bodies won’t allow us to do normal tasks, when time has slipped away like melted butter on a cob of corn, You are there. You pursuit us. You hear our prayers. You celebrate with us. You enjoy our laughter. You are always available. You lift us out of the pit. You never, ever, ever, let go of us. You are always there. Thank you, in Jesus name for allowing us another time of grace to share Your love with others. Amen!

As you face another week, you might be considering all the difficulties that may come. You may be looking forward to something special. You might be wondering about what God has in store for you today. You may be dreading an appointment – a test result – a financial loss – a relationship problem, but do you know that through it all, God is there with you. Maybe you’re concerned about making it through another day, because of your aging body. Death is imminent. We will all face it one day. We will all die, but by God’s perfect grace, we will never die. We may mourn those who pass on to eternity, but God has promised to give them new life and that makes us happy. Still, we miss them. We long for their presence in our lives. We feel sad when they can’t be at a graduation, a wedding, a celebration of any kind. Tears fall and yet we are supposed to rejoice.

Not as easy as it sounds, when you are the one going through this situation. We struggle to hang on to life and do all that we can from a medical standpoint. We trust the medical community to make decisions for us, without weighing the consequences of those choices. Quality of life vs. end of life becomes the last point of surrender for us. Do we trust the health care system, or the One who created all things? Letting go and letting God – has always been difficult for me. Wrestling with Him has been a way of life for me at times. Maybe that’s why my hips and knees hurt so much. I put up a good fight, but there is nothing within my own power to change things – to make them better – to improve them – to find solutions. God is forever consistent. He never changes, even though we are in a continual state of flux. Giving in – even to Him – is a struggle all of us will face at one point or another. Since He never changes, we have the assurance that He will always keep His promises – He loves us – He will never let us go – He paid the ultimate price to save us – we can rejoice, even in the trials we face each day.

It’s Monday – again. Thank God for being at your disposal 24/7. His love endures forever!

Posted in aging, death, God | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

GOD KNOWS WHEN . . .

Posted on August 6, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

Our days are numbered in God’s eternal calendar.

We don’t know how long, where or when, but we will all die.

There is no question about it.  We have no control over it.

Consider these days He has given us as a time of grace –

A time to realize all the wrongs we have done,

To repent and ask for forgiveness,

 And appreciate the gift of God’s sweet mercy.

For some it is a lifelong relationship where growth continues.

For some it happens after they’ve hit rock bottom,

For some it is revealed right before they take their final breath,

For others it is never realized.

But as it was with a condemned criminal on the cross next to Jesus,

The compassion of the perfect Lamb of God Is still available.

Our seconds, minutes and hours are consumed with Him.

His message is satisfying food for those starving for it.

His Word can heal wounded spirits and renew hope.

His use of ordinary people to do extraordinary things is evidence.

His love endures forever!

These numbered days should be filled with thanksgiving and praise.

To our God and King.

It is with Him that we can look ahead with anticipation,

To life eternal, where time no longer exists,

Posted in Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, death, Jesus, life after death | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

TURMOIL OR PEACE?

Posted on August 5, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

ART BY PAUL T. BOECHER & POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER©

When fears and worries are so real,
We sometimes wonder why we feel,
The pangs of deep depression.

The weight’s extreme – we lose all hope,
Our hearts grow sad – for strength we grope,
To lighten this progression.

We look within and try to cope
There are no answers in our scope
It now becomes oppression.

We try so hard to rise above,
We search in vain for any love.
To deal with this obsession.

We cannot do it on our own,
We need one advocate alone,
To bring our full confession.

God takes our hand and leads us out,
Relieves our pain – our fear – our doubt.
He is our best possession.

His love is great – it sees us through
When there is nothing we can do.
Our words hold no expression.

He lifts us from the pit of death.
He died for us to give us breath.
To wipe out our transgression.

Posted in anxiety, Art & Poetry by Paul & Kathy Boecher, healing, peace | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on TURMOIL OR PEACE?

ALL THE WORLD IS A STAGE

Posted on August 4, 2023 by atimetoshare.me

Today, being Friday, I thought I’d post some pictures of me doing what I love to do. I’ve always been an actor, since probably the age of three when I would be the entertainer at all family events. My role has changed since then. I’ve gone from child actor to student, playwright, author, wife, mother, companion, director, teacher, caregiver and back to being a child – of God. Whatever direction God leads us in, is always for our benefit. Even if it means wearing a fake nose and glasses.

William Shakespeare once said, “All the world’s a stage and all the men merely players. They have their exits and their entrances and one man plays many parts. His acts being seven.” If that’s the case, I should be nearing my final curtain, but I believe that God’s will for my life will prevail.

If I still have something to offer this world, He’s going to let me stick around for a while. I pray that He will always be my Director, guiding me tenderly and with discipline, so that when I finally reach my last curtain call, I will be ready to serve Him on a totally new level

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