How do I loathe thee? With apologies to Shakespeare, there are more ways than my feeble mind can manifest. This country is so broken. I am so exhausted trying to listen to the different arguments, giving respect and truly doing my level best to understand your point (or points). I sincerely believe in redemption, in another chance, in making lemonade out of lemons. Where my belief falls short is when muddled ideologies of Christianity and the Republican party attempt to mesh. This particular philosophy is appalling in that Jesus Christ taught over and over the concept of loving and caring for those who you might not pal with, those less fortunate, the people who don't agree with every word you utter. Only once did Jesus go off on anyone, when He cleared the temple of moneychangers - every other time He showed love and patience with people.

Politics aren't spirit-filled! Please stop trying to make faith-based judgements on Political rhetoric. The abolishment of historical fact in order to make your belief fit in a scenario is insulting. The use of Wikapedia to site evidence is a joke. Faith and science can coexist. Instead of arguing for or against any point by bullying the person or persons who disagree with you, sit down with them, as Jesus did with the Pharisees, the woman at Jacob's well, or as Paul and Peter did. If we have evidence that just because you are a follower of Christ you always must agree with each other, the apostle Paul and Peter are examples to the contrary.

You may be correct, or have a valid point, but if you are a southern end of a north-bound horse, your point falls mute. If you constantly believe you are the smartest person in the room, or chat room, you have a following of one. Sharing is caring - not I'm big, you're small. I'm smart, you're dumb! It seems to be a matter of perspective.

I have friends I wholeheartedly disagree with on issues and opinions, but they have amazing ways of making their point with no condemnation. Other friends I agree with and I can't stand to read their work. It works in reverse as well. I was bullied as a child, by some of my closest Facebook friends - Family and friends alike can be both simple and easy to understand, regardless of my level of agreement, while others are just horrific to communicate with.

These last 16 months of Pandemic have been very hard for so many. Untimely deaths, serious illnesses, loss of jobs, and then add social unrest, politics out of control at federal, state, and county levels! Cancel culture run amok, Democrats and Republicans acting like Hatfield's and McCoy's. This year has been horrible in so many ways. However, there are blessings, if you look for them.

There is no room for hate or hate rhetoric as a Christian. There are opportunities to misuse Scripture all the time, but politics isn't the place. We Christians aren't perfect, but we should know the difference between love and bullying in our communication. "1If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. I Cor. 13.1-4 NIV

We shouldn't hate or talk like we hate.

Hate Leads To Nothing Good

I rarely talk about myself in this forum, but I have to admit I'm frustrated, and I'm annoyed. Briefly, my frustration comes from the people of earth and their learned behaviors, specifically hatred for other human beings because of the color of their skin, or some ideology difference. I'm very annoyed that these people seem to blame their hatred on those they are focusing their hatred upon.
Going backward in history, this very United States of America wasn't always united. The Civil War was anything but, and hundreds of thousands of Americans died fighting over the rights of a nationality of humans who were thought to be inferior because of the color of their skin, their customs, and their availability. My mind completely fragments that humans can be so callous, so stupid to other humans.

I wasn't around Europe in the 1930's and 40's, but I have read, heard from survivors, and seen photos and videos of the period prior to the Second World War. Germany got its proverbial butt kicked in WWI and turned to a racist little soldier who convinced them all their ills and problems were the fault of another ethnicity living amongst them. So as the little racist grew in popularity and power the country of Germany began to use force to take over other countries, and attempted to systematically wipe out an entire race, the Jewish race, from the Earth.

These and other horrific examples of hatred just in our country from the actions of last 150 plus years should be enough to change even the dullest mind, to bring experience into focus. But it hasn't - not enough to stop the stupid rhetoric of hate, the out and out abuse of power, and the detestable and senseless  murders across America, most in the name of hate. Men with darker skin being arrested and literally beaten for minor things, Dark skinned people being threatened and even shot for simply being profiled, and celebrities and athletes having to use stages meant for celebrating to speak out against the injustice.

I am proud to live in the greatest country on this planet. Am I proud of everything, absolutely and unequivocally NO. We are a relatively new Country, and many things about those who set us up are amazing. We are the one of the richest, and one of the top producers for the whole world. Our military is so good, the United States almost always come out on top unless politicians get in the way. We are resilient, compassionate, tough, and unfortunately free to live, to which a few pathetic and loathsome persons take advantage. Don't get me wrong, the gutless acts of the men and women murdering countless innocent humans is lower than despicable. The answers are not to easily point fingers, but to offer an ear or a hand. That is what Jesus would do

Blame - what does it accomplish? Blaming the political leader of the country is not fair - the problem has been around long before he took office. In fact, his revered predecessor had many hate grimes happen on his watch. The only bothersome issue with our President is that his words are a beacon to the supremacists - the El Paso shooter's Manifesto is right off Trump's twitter feed. Mental health has become a target for blame, and the arguments for health care issues simply have become a platform for political views.

Another opportunity for blame is gun laws/control. My opinion on this subject is that illegal guns should have been being confiscated all along, and the ability to buy one should be much more stringent. Do I believe the NRA is a corrupt, powerful political machine? Yes I do. My opinion is that as this big machine, they are paying more than just one political party. It doesn't make sense that they wouldn't hedge their bet. Lobbyists are thick as flies at the outhouse - another point on how broken our Country is. I've even heard very smart men argue that our nation is under attack from Spiritual forces. While I whole-heartedly agree that The Evil One is hard at work, this isn't the Promised Land and other Godless countries in our world don't have this problem.

As the last word on hatred, this country's citizens hate of anyone who disagrees with their views is such an ironic fallacy. Users of Social Media, entertainers, and even athletes and businesses are scolded and held up to such harsh scrutiny and ridicule for OPINIONS. Our President is not the cause, he is a symptom of the bigger problem. Blaming this nation's ills on those with different colored skin, or a belief system contrary to ours will not cure the problem. It hasn't worked for years and years. Childlike love, color-blind and genuine will be the balm that this country must have. I truly am embarrassed to be a white male. I love people - all people regardless of color, economic or social standing, or ideology. I am hoping that makes a difference.

2017 - New Year - New Challenges

It was a nice house. It was a peaceful, yet chaotic house. The beautiful lady, who had three strong and gorgeous children was attracted to a guy who was quite broken and had his own cute and energetic son. These two put their lives together, made a covenant to love each other for the rest of their lives, and built a family, complete with ex-spouses, in-laws, and children of their own. Flash forward twenty one years and the beautiful lady is even more beautiful, talented, and full of love. The broken and goofy guy is still goofy, but works every day to be better than he was the day before.

They have made a family, not the prototypical Cleaver, Petrie, or Stone TV sitcom family, but a loving, dysfunctional, somewhat unique "Yours, Mine, and Ours" group, with Christ as our rudder, and Pam as our anchor, this family continues to grow in love. The players in this  story are named Andrew, Laura, Bradley, C.J., Douglas, and Karyl. Children full of anger, confusion, and distain are growing into amazing adults - carving their very own path regardless of how their divorced parents and step parents screwed them up. Then the two children Pam and I had grew up, and now in the year 2017 both plan to branch out, leave the nest and find their own paths. My baby, Karyl, was married in a simple and fun civil ceremony on December 29, and her husband, Jacob, will finish his Army training and be stationed in August, when she plans to join him and set up their home. Our baby boy, Douglas, is moving to Florida to attend college.

Our oldest boy, Andrew, is a professor in Nagoya, Japan and is married to an amazing lady, Chie, and they have an incredibly cute and sweet little boy. Our daughter Laura is a successful Surgical Tech and her man, Jamie, is an accomplished plumber, and their daughter, our granddaughter is 12 years old. Our boys Bradley and C.J., the two that brought us together with their friendship all those years ago are both on their own, living life to the fullest and making their mark in the world. Brad is still working at Disneyland, plus a couple of side jobs, while C.J. is in college and is close to his masseuse license, plus a side job or two.Our six kids are all healthy and experiencing the good things of life. Our family has grown from two divorcees and four kids into nine kids, two grandkids and a whole lot of love.

This year was a good one. Things started, and things ended. we are so blessed to live in a neighborhood of amazing people. We have been rewarded with much more than we need. We pray for and thank God daily that our parents are still with us, that we have cousins, aunts and uncles to laugh with, cry with, and enjoy. This year upcoming, 2017, will mark big changes, challenges, and charges for us all. With the guidance of God and our faith in Jesus Christ, our love for each other, and our amazing children, this year will be record setting!

My Life Fail/Christ's Victory

To the messenger of the church in Laodicea write:

These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. Revelation 3. 14-17 NIV

 

As a Christian I am totally convicted in my own heart every time I read these verses. "What can I do to be a stronger, brighter light for Jesus?" Satan works on me, enticing me to sit on my couch when I should be doing anything else - volunteering, working for a local church, even cleaning my house --- anything is better than wasting my day. Yet, I still do it, even though I know it's the wrong way to behave. Even as I read other brothers and sisters in Christ posts and tweets and I am not motivated to get as excited as they are, I worry that I am lukewarm. So I think it through, and I see that just because I don't have their conviction, or I don't possess the answer, it doesn't mean I'm not "hot" for the Lord.  

 

We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know. But whoever loves God is known by God. I Corinthians 8. 1-3 NIV

 

So I get all introspective and ask myself, "Is there a bigger hypocrite than I am?" The answer is a resounding "WHO CARES?" God doesn't measure me to anyone else, so why do I? I just have to grow every day - more like Christ today than yesterday. Having knowledge is not having wisdom --- We all know folks that are know-it-alls and love and sincerity are not in them. I pray every day that I do not become one of those --- I try every day to be more like Jesus. Some days are better than others.

 

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6.7-10 NIV

 

So, we don't just do good for any type of merit badge or spiritual bank account, but because we have The Holy Spirit inside and are compelled to what is right. Pastors across the country have said on many occasions that God doesn't expect you to clean up before you turn your life over to Him, turn your life over and He will aid you in the clean up process.

 

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4.8 NIV

Debate Depression

How sad our country has become --- we listen to people on radio and TV acting like children, then other people come on the TV and radio afterwards and tell you what you heard - like you couldn't hear them in the first place. I'm not for either candidate. I believe this GIF tells everything -

I am re-reading the biography by Henry Ketcham titled, The Life of Abraham Lincoln and Ketcham shows that the political machine even back then was sketchy and corrupt. Abraham Lincoln was such a new and fresh figure in Washington D.C. in 1861 that his life was jeopardy on a daily basis. He had bodyguards due to daily threats.

These two people on the big stage running for the position of President of the United States are a mockery of our political system. Hillary is like the Barry Bonds of politics. She has never been caught with the steroid needle sticking out of her derriere, but the preponderance of evidence against her is so overwhelming, and the trail of corruption is just exhaustingly obvious. And yet, the liberal media is doing everything in their power to make Donald Trump out to be the Antichrist, and completely fool John Q. Public.

The Donald was originally a breath of fresh air in the political landscape but then he spoke, and continues to speak without the use of advisors or any human. Again, I reiterate ... How sad for America.

Bwah Wah Wah, Bah Wah Bwah Bwah

Talk - there is a lot of it these days. Many, many words are being said about many, many things. Thanks to six hundred channels on cable or satellite TV, and news on half of those channels, as well as social media being so prevalent and accessible (obviously, I'm even a writer on the internet) that any and all opinions can be put out there. Andrew Shepherd, a fictional President in the movie The American President starring Michael Douglas gave a speech at the end of the movie that is truth. The meat of the speech is as poignant to our reality today as it was in the movie 20 + years ago. The President said,

“…America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight. It's gonna say "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours…”

Talk - Words - Sharing ideas - The art of communication is NOT just talking, it also requires listening. I want to hear what you have to say. I want to hear what men and women who are protesting for equality have to say. I absolutely loved my wife's aunt and cousins visiting from West Virginia, coming clear to California to spend time with family. Not only did we have great big fun with them, but we talked about events in the news and shared ideas and opinions and no one got their feelings hurt, no one cussed the other, and nobody got punched, stabbed or shot.

I share my opinions with my neighbors, and they respond, and nothing bad happens. Even my wife and I differ on certain subjects. She and I have come to terms on important family stuff, and discuss world events in order to learn about viewpoints other than our own. Why then are there those in my country who are trying to force others to abandon their rights and follow a path they don't have to follow?

Now, to be contradictory, if you are on a bad side of the argument, where you find yourself in error, just be able to admit it. In others words listen to those who are talking, and don't over talk them, or shout your point, or stop communicating all together. Also, don't tell me what this person or that person said or meant, because I played gossip as a kid, and the message always got screwed up. I distain those who tell me I can't understand the situation because of my gender, my skin color, or my address. If I don't understand, I will ask, and I know who I will and won't ask for clarification. I will not ask the exaggerator, or the one who's personal agenda is whittled in to the subject. I won't listen to those who are pathological liars, or those who only talk about themselves.

American men of Western European decent do not speak for me. Fundamentalist Christian leaders don't speak for me. I have my own mind (for the present) and can see things - usually multi-sided, even intentionally muddled things can be pondered and understood by this college educated, unemployed student working on a new career in his mid fifties. Lately I have been watching the news with the attitude of Charlie Brown, Linus Van Pelt, Peppermint Patty, and the rest of the Peanuts gang. Every time an adult speaks, all that is audible is "Bwah Wah Wah, Bah Wah Bwah Bwah."

Therefore, I have serious issues with a Presidential candidate that doesn't seem to care about right and wrong, who's fat is always in the fire, and will say anything to exonerate themselves. I also find it a puzzler that a non-politician with fresh perspective vying for the leader of our Country shows arrogance, bigotry, and a total lack of diplomacy every time the mouth is open.

And this whole falderal over our posture during the National anthem is so tired and ridiculous. Seriously, those who are freaking out about it are laying down, lounging, or sitting on their couches while the station airs it before every sporting event. That is so hypocritical I truly feel like screaming when any news media outlet is more concerned over who's up or down more than the why. And when 'credible' media like Mr. Limbaugh as an example misquote and twist the facts for ratings points and actual servicemen and women are saying quite clearly that they understand it's not about them or their service, but for the inequality in a Country founded and built on "All men (and women) are created equal..."

Let's stop banging the drum for gun control and make the screening process better. Our government should pour those millions in raises they give themselves into mental health care - not as an easy out for the privileged who commit crimes, but to receive help BEFORE they get that far. This country has become so inconsistent. Freedom of religion has been changed to freedom from religion. It is laughable that Kurt Warner and Tim Tebow are vilified and ridiculed because of their overt and proud professions of faith in God and Christian lifestyles, while the Kardashians, Miley, and numerous others become role models because of their decadence, hedonism, and lack of morals.

Crime is a serious problem in America. Criminals 'rights' are heralded over victims now in many cases. We also have a problem with a minority of Peace Officers who feel they are above the laws and peoples they are sworn to protect. The system needs to be prepared to deal with those individuals and not lump every badge together as evil. Citizens of any race or ethnicity are welcome into this stew that is the United States of America. I call it a stew because it isn't a melting pot, it is a stew with its own unique flavors to both blend with and enhance the other flavors that have all come together for a meal.

The sign on the Statue of Liberty reads "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore, send these homeless, these tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door" Emma Lazarus The New Colossus. The book of James, one of the letters in the Bible's New Testament tells us "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world" Js 1.27 NIV. There was a time ( I read about it in books) when politicians were altruistic and more concerned with this country than with their jobs, their money, or their power.

Their was a time when those who preached God's Word didn't build monuments to themselves, they didn't preach giving and take millions in salary and estates. Again, not all politicians are greedy, selfish, lying, cheats. Not all Pastors are power mongers with greed and other sinful appetites as glaring stumbling blocks for their ministry. Its hard to understand these folks when they speak, because all that comes out is "Bwah Wah Wah, Bah Wah Bwah Bwah." I love Jesus and praise Him for rescuing me from hell, and I love this country, the best country in the world. I know the church has problems, and so does our political system. I can be one who creates change.

When You Don't Want to Say What Your Heart Needs to Say

These times are critical. Men and women who claim to be bearers of the word of God have become filthy rich and are terrible examples of Christ. Others claim to have leadership qualities for all men and women,  yet they act like bullies and bigots, unscrupulous liars, and other non-Christ-like characteristics. As a follower of Christ, I am in a dilemma as are most fundamental Christian Americans.

You have no candidate, you have no party, and you (okay, I - when I say 'you' I truly mean me or I, whichever is grammatically better) feel awash in a sea of inconsistency and rationalization.

If you vote for Hillary, because we know she is for social change, social justice, and socialism, we have to ignore her pro choice and laundry list of crimes she has been accused of, and her turning her back on so many women objectified and used by her own husband. She is a bully and one of the economic elite in this country. She seems to have no conscience about the deaths of Americans at a U.S. Embassy, because she is too busy denying rather than taking responsibility.

If you vote for Donald, because he is pro life, and he is being sponsored by the right-wing, conservative party commonly linked to fundamental Christianity, you vote for a bully, an openly vocal bigoted racist, a morally objectionable man who treats women, all women as objects and not as equals, and anyone who isn't from Caucasia as an interloper.

If we break it down by issue, the gun lobby loves Trump, and Clinton will be a big problem. If we are pro life, Hillary has said abortion is no problem if she's President. The Donald is dishonest in business, but will say whatever is on his mind, openly mocking people with special needs or lifestyles not in the mainstream. Health insurance has been a headache in America for a while - and which candidate is in the insurance lobby's pocket will continue to kill Americans financially.

A vastly grotesque problem in our country is the media. William Randolph Hearst would be so proud today if he was here to watch CNN verbally boil Trump in oil, while Fox news calls Clinton the personification of Satan in drag. At our house one TV is my in-laws, and it is always on ABC or CNN news, or Jeopardy, or the Angels broadcast. That is a lot of news every day to stomach, so I don't. I abhor the Fox news as well, being so agenda driven. Forty plus years ago you reported about a political faux pas, like it was original sin itself, and now 'making' news is more important then 'reporting' it.

While you rant and rail against the current and failed system, Mr. Bernie Sanders has a message that is quite intelligent - Get Involved to evoke the Change. You get involved in your community, your city, or state politics. I like that.

I Remember When a Tank was The Symbol of a Strong Force

Capitalism breeds competition. Participation trophies are for pansies and are socialistic in it's pure form. If winning isn't everything, why do we keep score?  Nice guys finish last. Show me a good loser and I'll show you an idiot. Competition gives me energy, it keeps me focused. A good loser is just a loser.

For all my years I've heard these quotes and more like them that raise the competitive juices to the boiling point, and attempt to instill a stronger self worth. Coaches, employers, and teachers alike tried to pump me up with motivational jargon. In the last few years however, a new phenomenon has been born especially at the professional sports level. "Tanking" or losing on purpose has become fashionable. Years back the Indianapolis Colts won the 'Suck for Luck' campaign. The Philadelphia 76ers have been so bad for so long and have accumulated top draft choices for so long they should be a super power.

I've been a participant, a coach, and a fan of many sports teams for many years. I admit freely I have seen one NBA game in the last two seasons - game four of the Finals between the Warriors and the Cavaliers - but the losing of the Lakers is disturbing. The radio talk show circuit claims that the crappy roster and lack of a good coach are purposeful. Such a storied franchise put to the punch line of a bad joke, it's so disheartening. From a consumer point of view,  why are people paying for such and inferior product? Like creating a cleaner to compete with 409 or Simple Green and just filling bottles with water.

I have been skeptical of the Spanos family down in San Diego for a few years as well. They have a very good quarterback, hired a top notch coach, and yet let all other impact players go to other teams via trade or free agency. I believe the Chargers owners intentionally sabotaged their roster to lose, so fans would quit them, and they could move to L.A. free and clear.

Last, my Rockies ownership that collects money for tickets and for memorabilia, and yet they refuse to build a winner. They trade talent for nothing or in their words prospects, they claim poor, and yet they pocket millions. The owners refuse to build pitching. they give away great players, and have no conscience about getting rich.

I long for the days when every team goes out on the field of play and does their best, every minute of every game.

I Love The United States of America

Back in the days of Solomon, the Lord came into the Temple and the author of Chronicles said that after Solomon prayed, fire came down from heaven and consumed the sacrifices and offerings and it was obvious to everyone that the Glory of the Lord had come to earth. 2 Chronicles records that the people fell on their faces and declared 'God is good, His love endures forever. 2 Chron. 7.1-3 NIV'

"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? Romans 10.14 NIV"

Today's church in general would argue "How can we keep them coming if our preaching is convicting or calling the people out?" Our great nation that was founded on a slogan of 'In God we trust' has leapt so far away from God we can not pray without offending, we can not praise God without offending, and we can not share the Gospel without offending. And when we offend, government swoops in to make laws and legislate American thought.

In the middle of my study I stopped to think how America has changed since I was just out of High School. Cable TV was brand new, and that influenced music (thank you MTV), fashion, news, sports, and salesmanship. TV evangelists were able to preach all over the world thanks to Cable TV. Sports grew to a ginormous proportion on Cable. A station was created for sports alone, not just the 13 minutes on the evening news.

The internet, cell phones for common folk, and a sugar substitute that tastes more like sugar and not a broken AAA battery came next, creating convenience and an instant knowledge if you could maneuver the dial-up modem. In the last 30 years our Supreme Court has lost its focus and purpose, our legislature has become a haven of corruption and skullduggery, and the Presidency, once the most coveted and powerful job on the planet, is no more than the figurehead of a political machine of lobbies and self interest, instead of being what President Lincoln saw the post Civil War country could be, "that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here gave the last full measure of devotion - that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain – that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

Fictional President Andrew Shepard said it best - "America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight. It's gonna say "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours." Rather than a government that rules and regulates us out of what we are supposed to be in order that a few are appeased, the broken system needs fixed.

In this day of persecution of the psychological, where the mind of those who have no faith is pressuring the faithful with logic and sarcastic arguments, those prayer warriors should be so diligent, asking God for guidance and courage. "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. Philippians 4.8,9 NIV"

In brightest day, in blackest night ...

In brightest day, in blackest night,
No evil shall escape my sight.
Let those who worship evil's might,
Beware my power, Green Lantern's light!!!

I have always loved - adored, revered, came-close-to-the-edge-of-worshipped comic superheroes.
One of the key reasons my great aunt Myrtle was so amazing and my memories are today as vivid as 40 years ago was her Bicycle fix it shop where she sold candy and comic books, and the very few times we visited I read carnivorously. While I read them all, and even saved my allowance to buy comic books as a kid, my favorites were the Fantastic Four, Spiderman, Captain America, and Green Lantern. It was recently that I thought about it, like it was vital knowledge, and found a key to my favorites. They were all ordinary, run-of-the-mill people that had extraordinary circumstances change them and thrust them into new life roles.

All of them struggle with their "gift", and yet they all use this power, this endowment for good to combat evil make the world a better place. I have always been drawn to those who choose wisely when faced with a dilemma. Mainly because I struggle with that exact trait. As a kid I wasn't as good looking, as big, as focused, or as talented as many of my friends. I wasn't the well dressed, or the one with the latest things, I was very ordinary. Yet in my head ordinary was defined as "loser".

Even after I became a Christian, and began to focus on a life of ministry, I stumbled and fell, and feeling like even God was backing a loser - twice, I walked away defeated. But God has such a broad plan, it even included fallible, pathetic me. God's word tells me "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here" 2 Cor. 5.17 NIV. That is powerful! "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me" Ps. 23.4 NIV. Jesus told the Pharisees, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” Jn 8.12 NIV.

It's a stretch, I know, but Green Lantern's mantra is so Godly - so many times Jehovah spoke directly or through the pens of His chosen in scripture,
In brightest day, in blackest night,
No evil shall escape my sight.
Let those who worship evil's might,
Beware my power, God Almighty, The Great I AM, Creator or heavens and earth's light!!!

Life was so crappy for the apostle Paul, yet from the lowly prison cell he wrote encouragement and hope. Today I see so much evil, and so many Christians policing and politicizing the world instead of  shining the light of Christ, walking righteously --- NOT self righteously, leading people to the Truth, the Gospel. I have a super power. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit, I have written Scripture of Jesus' teaching, and I can step into a dark, cold, evil world and make a difference.

It's All About Love

What is my job as a Christian? One that lives in a world where things are not easy or as the church dictates? This land where people scream at the top of their lungs to respect their rights, yet laws and mores have begun to persecute Christians because we are commanded to be gentle, meek, and peaceful. This country where a celebrities that party to excess, taking part in immorality are glorified and anyone in the public eye that claims and lives as a Christian is mocked - and if they happen to misspeak or act human at all instead of the perfect standards they are held to, then that same  Christian is vilified in social media , the news, and in the media.

I have heard so much hate spewing out about the past and the present, from the public at large and from individuals who hold themselves up as leaders of the church. I have been thinking long and hard, praying for as much wisdom as can fit in this little brain, and have held off commenting on all the stuff in the news over the last few weeks, because I hope I have a light to share.

Jesus told his followers, "Go in through the narrow gate, because the gate to hell is wide and the road that leads to it is easy, and there are many who travel it.  But the gate to life is narrow and the way that leads to it is hard, and there are few people who find it." Jesus' teachings were revolutionary. The Jewish leaders in the Roman era, generally speaking, were pious, politically connected men who had become more concerned with appearance than the spiritual soul. There were many other religious choices as well.

In the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter's fifth book, Professor Dumbledore is very direct in advising Harry when he says, "Dark and difficult times lie ahead. Soon we must all face the choice between what is right and what is easy." In the Princess Bride, The man in black tells Buttercup, "Life is pain, Highness. Anyone who says differently is selling something." So, whether it's God's Word to us in Scripture, or literature, or the movies, they all agree that tough times are for heroes. The major difference is that eternal paradise is only promised in the Bible by Jesus. He died, was buried and rose from the dead to conquer death and be the living Promise for us. I cant do that, but I can live like I believe and follow His example.

Jesus was all about love. He spoke to people on the street, or His closest followers, the twelve disciples with love and mercy. In John chapter 4 His conversation with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's Well is a stunning example of love in action. Never does Jesus give the woman a pass on her life's choices of the past. He spoke in the now, and held to the Living Water, the promise of paradise and not her past.

Encounter after encounter shows Jesus in a loving and gentle conversation talking about motivations and teaching lessons by giving us glimpses of what God's heart is all about. This all leads me back to what is my Christian duty in all this LGBT stuff, whether the marriage law or transgender lifestyles? Jesus was asked by Jewish leaders about the most important laws - Love God with all your heart and all your soul and all your strength and all your mind, Love your neighbor as yourself. They asked, about the identity of the neighbor. Such a human thing. Be specific - find the loophole, the flaw and then minimize the lesson.

In Luke chapter 10 the lesson that follows tells of a man traveling when he was accosted by robbers. He was badly beaten and left for dead, a passing Priest, and a scholar who was a devout Jew both passed him by and did nothing. A Samaritan (a man from a despised and socially inferior race) passed by and went to the victim's aid, bandaging his wounds and even taking him into the town and paying for his hotel. In the 40's it would have been a German, in the 50's a Communist, a hippie in the 60's, etc.

If I'm allowed to mix my religion with politics, Jesus was never PC. He calls us to follow Him, to make a difference. That flies in the face of politician's, who try so hard to keep their job they don't do their job. Jesus many times out philosophized the religious and political leaders in His day. That doesn't give Christians a license to be the countries morality police. The flags people fly, the pride in America is not a Christian rite. Christians need to gain some perspective. Be fisher's of men and not political saviors.

Legacies, and Who is Greatest of All Time

    While I have had to endure radio sports shows over this last two month stretch talking about legacies of Robert Kraft, Bill Billacheat, and Tom Brady --- also Commissioner Roger Goodell, and more recently, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. I love sports. I can talk sports all day, but I now know I can never have a job as a "pundit" or a sports writer or a sports talk show host because I just CAN'T MAKE STUFF UP!

    I will be using I a lot in this post, because I can't understand who made up the rules and what the actual rules are --- so lets begin with legacy, what will be Tom Brady's legacy? He plays a team sport, but somehow he gets all the credit for making it to 5 Super Bowls. I can remember just two years ago when a certain Manning brother was ready to play the Seahawks and his legacy was he had to win to make a great legacy. Now these same "experts" make up new rules to suit their warped wants and fuzzy spots.

   It is chic to love Tommy the super model with the second wife he had an affair with the super model while married to a pregnant woman carrying his baby. But those kind of morals the NFL doesn't care about. You have to pummel a woman and have the tape seen by everyone, have a dog fighting ring and be photo'd with the dead clients, or spank your kid with a switch multiple times leaving bleeding welts and bruises for everyone to see on social media.

    I need to get back to the subject, making up rules for a player's legacy. Michael Jordan is considered the greatest basketball player ever - Not Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, or even Larry Bird or Earvin Magic Johnson. How do "experts" come up with these names and criteria? One will say 'Rings' - His Airness had six finals appearances and six championships. But an argument immediately pops up Russell has 11 rings ... The rest of the reasons digress from this point.

    Why can't we use our eyes and our minds to decide. I saw George Gervin, David Thompson, Geoff Paddock, and Dominique Wilkins play in their primes as well as Magic and Larry, who resuscitated the NBA almost by themselves, and I saw greatness many days, but I have yet to see any better than the best ever,  an amazing 7'1" dude who could run and jump like a man twelve inches smaller and one hundred pounds lighter, who was told all he could do was score, so he intentionally went on the floor and led in assists. Wilt was the greatest - period!  Please argue that he only has one ring, on a team sport even. Let me just ask, for arguments sake, how many rings Air Jordan won without Phil as coach or Scottie as teammate? As a two sport athlete Michael sucked at baseball, and Wilt went on in his older years to dominate at volleyball.

    Okay, I am done. Let's talk about the greatest of all time - at quarterback in the NFL. Montana is undefeated in five Super Bowls, while playing on arguably the greatest franchise of an era from every position. Some Tommy Terrific Ugglickers have created the five Super Bowl appearances with no special supporting cast - The number of All Pros Brady played with is Gulliverian compared to the number John Elway had as teammates.

    The Coaches Elway played for also makes his accomplishments even more Herculean, as his first Head Coach and he fought for years, with an Offense that was run the ball, control the clock, strong Defense to neutralize the opponent and then TWO MINUTE WARNING - Go for it John! Reeves was never able to get O-Linemen who were worth anything. Running backs were either broken old dudes or young guys who Reeves reportedly couldn't deal with. Wade Phillips was a Defensive genius, and the offense was a lot like playing in the back lot with the guys --- you go long, you do a 'button hook', and you run to the patch of leaves and then cut hard right --- finally after ten seasons where the world saw greatness get massacred in three Super Bowls, Shanahan was hired as his Head Coach. So John has been to five and won two, his numbers were not spectacular, since his contemporary Dan Marino was breaking every passing record for the Dolphins.

    He now runs those same Broncos, whom I admittedly have been fanatic about for close to 50 years. I believe the quarterback of the 2015 Broncos, goes by the name of Peyton, is right on the heels of G.O.A.T. (that's a shortcut for greatest of all time) - yet, the game has changed so much. Staubach was a brilliant leader and so incredibly athletic. Bradshaw had to throw to two HOF receivers or give it two a HOF back, with an O-Line of superior talent. Namath was amazing until his knees just didn't work anymore. These are men I saw play, and the game has changed so much in rule, and in innovation.  Brees, Wilson, or Luck could all be names argued years from now as G.O.A.T. ---

The Concept of Regret

When I was but a wee little lad, my parents taught me to walk, talk, obey, respect, laugh, and most importantly love. Their example and diligent instruction were the best foundation that my life could have been given. The love for God, each other, and their family is to this day the lighthouse beacon my ship of life follows when I have trouble finding the way. Now the puzzle isn't simple, as I have a totally unique personality and traits that neither parent could relate to, let alone understand. Which again proves that unconditional love, the Godly example of my parents love for me is honkin' awesome!

I sit at this computer, just a few weeks removed from a terrible dilemma and yet God has proven yet again His faithfulness and desire for my wife, myself, and my family to be okay is important. I'm not talking Joel Osteen successful, where we tell God we want prosperity and if we are faithful then we get it rom God, I'm talking about having a family, pleasing God by living in accordance with laws and statutes (even if, as a major example, your HOA is a thieving, money grubbing, location of Gehenna on earth, but that's a rabbit trail for another day!). There are definitely days when I don't measure up to any standards of right, but God is faithful, forgiving, and forever able to teach me and allow me to grow and learn to be more like Jesus every day of my life.

This is where I humbly tell you again how great my parents were, are, and will be as they live and  love us as examples of Christ. Ladies and Germs, I was an unbelievable pain in the posterior and yet these meek, shy, circumspect people raised me to be the best me I could be. I am both grateful and awed at their lives. How can I not give my all with a foundation as great as that? This life we have been given is a blink compared to eternity, so, giving 100% is what we are called to give.

 So what does this have to do with regret? Truthfully, everything - or absolutely nothing. In these moments of reflection I could write about World issues, Current Event topics, and give you my opinions based on either some factoid I've pulled out of the sky or a feeling I have toward something or someone in the news. Actually, I have written both of those ways recently --- I have also found a voice giving an ear to my past and the many things I wish I could change, people I would treat differently, etc., but today I am just thankful and so proud to be the son of Kaloma and Charles -

No regrets

Educated, or not ...

Education...

Whether formal, with classrooms, theses, and degrees, or life lessons given by numerous random happenings and folks - education is a daily, even hourly process. From birth, the human is absorbing information, at individual amounts - each one grasping new concepts depending on their own circumstances and genetic makeup. Some humans learn to talk first, some walk first, some learn to trust and be friendly to all, and some learn to build psychological walls to keep friends to a minimum.

The term, "uneducated" is, or should not be a useable term on it's own, for we all learn from day one to our final day, education happens for everyone. The term holds merit if you say, "That Person is uneducated in nuclear science." Or, "That Person seems uneducated in the nuances of sarcasm." No one ever should use the phrase "That Person is an uneducated jerk!" There are as many ways to learn as there are people on earth. A teacher is not always the possessor of knowledge, but the tool or instrument, if you will, to direct the human to unearthing the knowledge for themselves. The most interesting and useful parcel of information I have gleaned in my experiences and schooling is that even the dullest of formally educated  human beings possess vast knowledge in something - whether I am interested or able to understand their certain avenue of intelligence is irrelevant to their abilities.

One thing I have found is that change can not be mandated in people. Change can be introduced, but a bully must choose to think and act differently, they can not be made to stop. It has been proven over and over the prejudice is a learned behavior. For learning, the teacher is not a magician, mystically imparting knowledge into the cortex of those who sit and listen. Teacher's are conduits, giving life and energy to a subject, or concept, and presenting it in a way that the optimum amount of material can be gleaned and retained.

Let Me Be The Last . . .

   These days, massive amounts of ink, bytes, and energy are being used to tell us what is happening in our world. The problem is, as my little brain with it's tiny little frame-of-reference to world or local politics sees it is, ever since Woodward and Bernstein all journalists are trying to make news instead of reporting it. Can you imagine a world where 'spin' is not a political noun and ones leanings (Republican or Democrat) weren't the filters used to disseminate a story. Or, that filters of any kind would be unnecessary to read the news.

   No, this isn't about Mr. Williams , formerly of NBC, and his version of historical fiction, nor is it about our President and his fictional depiction of Christians and Muslims. The celebrity TV personality in my crosshairs today is Charles "That's tearabull" Barkley.

   Yes, you played basketball at the highest level. You overachieved being an undersized power forward that landed in the HOF. While you never stood atop Olympus like your buds Air Jordan, Magic, and Larry, you never fail to give your opinion on ANYTHING! Your diction and pronunciation are unique and generally 'tearabull', but you have a wit and an overachieving sense of humor. I won't make fun of your collegiate institution, because as a scholarshipped athlete the odds are that you didn't go to class anyway. Thank you for validating the analytics of basketball by denying their validity.
   The Rockets GM Daryl Morey tweeted out pure brilliance in less than 140 characters after Charles' opinion of analytics went out to millions on the TNT broadcast. Morey tweeted, "Best part of being at a TNT game live is it is easy to avoid Charles spewing misinformed biased vitriol disguised as entertainment" ---

   This man, this former NBA superstar is rich, popular, and not really as smart as he thinks he is. He can't beat the nerd with words, so he stoops to name calling, and bullying tactics - on national TV. Sadly, while many media participants are making news instead of reporting it, Americans are left in the dark. The public hears and believes. The majority will be lead and that isn't good for society.

Grace

I miss the days of my youth. Okay, some of the days - I can do without the whisper of memories - being stuffed in trash cans, crammed into school lockers, and openly mocked because I was tiny, unattractive, and good natured.

The theme is funny - looking, ha ha speaking, mostly - the conversation is about an embarrassment of blessings even though I am vastly ineligible. Let's discuss. Have you ever had something in your head that was exploding to get out, and yet was as absent as the Sun at midnight? The person who knows what is best for you, for everyone, in fact, and just purports opinions. I used to be that guy!

Experience has taught me that I know less than the next person - well maybe not less, but not any more. So the elephant in the room (on this paper) is screaming, "Why are you writing then, if you don't have superior intelligence, or an overwhelming experience?" The answer is simple. I need to express myself.

Expression comes to some in oratory, others in music, and many other facets of life. I can talk until your ears bleed, but I rarely get to a point. In my writing I can edit, rewrite, erase, and even use visual aids to get a point across. Am I assuming that I am a better writer than speaker? The answer is no - resoundingly! I just have the ability to be better, but that doesn't make it so.

There are people with which I wish I could hang out, or sit and talk to, or just follow around for laughs. I saw this story on Pinterest - click the link now, then come back and finish - I'll wait.
The story of Shane is a humorous reality - an example of how people love life.

My God made me to live and commune with Him here on earth. He gave me this twisted sense of humor. He has also shaped my growth as a man who truly loves to worship and celebrate being His follower. I have weaknesses, or failings, and miraculously through my booboos He can be glorified, exalted, and seen for the Great and Awesome God He is.

When Paul says he put childish things away when he became a man in I Corinthians 13, I see what he means now more clearly. We learn, grow, and thrive as children - and then we learn that things like blurting out conversations in private are not wise, or that if we don't pick up our toys they get lost or broken. We learn to fix our meals to keep hunger at bay, and we gravitate to people that make us feel love and comfort.

Paul told the Roman church to build up the weaker and Praise God  - and the Bible is to teach us -  Rom 15. 1-4. It is this example of building up my friends and family that I write to you - be glad, be active, and be involved. God loves you and wants you to talk with Him

Thankfulness

Humanity - what a cop out, an easy excuse. This is very hard, to see perfection all around and know that I fall as short as Eddie Gaedel (shortest ballplayer ever) in EVERY category. I see suffering and so much bleakness all around me - just to watch the TV commercials and see cancer, crime, the economy, and all other forms of evil resolutely ingrained into our thoughts - I am thankful that the Light in my Life shines regardless of my understanding or commitment at the time.

I can take the time to write, but never fully encompass all that I am thankful for in this blog, and it will take me a few days. This is my list, with a small explanation in accompaniment.

I am most thankful for Jesus, God's only Son, who gave me the supreme example of love by dying for me. Only because of Him can I have the hope of Heaven for eternity. I rejoice today and every day for the gift of Faith, Hope, and Love from the Lord. When I screw it all up, I am thankful for His promise to never stop loving me.

I daily Thank God for my best friend, my help-mate, my wife Pam. Her exploits of patience and Love are legendary at the Huntley Home. The short response is to say she is amazing, and I am so blessed to be with her. It is a fact that many have written me off, given me the gate, yet she still loves me and most days I can't see why.

My seven children - Jessica, Andrew, Laura, Bradley, Charles J., Douglas, and Karyl - every day I grow more proud of the adults they are, their feats and failures. and their growth as humans. They teach me almost every day and are always helping mew shape who I am.

   Jessica, how you have grown and made a beautiful family. I thank God for you often.
   Andrew, for your wisdom and strong character I thank God - you make me extremely proud to know you and your sweet family.
   Laura, God truly blessed my life with your family and the joy of watching you grow to be such a stable and beautiful woman, mom, and wife.
   Bradley, I thank God for your gentle servant-spirit --- you are an amazingly successful man and I am proud of you.
   C.J., I am sorry I screwed you up with a broken home, but am so thankful God has saved you from your heart problems for great things.
   Douglas, you are still young and I praise God for your attitude and strength of character. What a fantastic young man you are.
   Karyl, my baby, my miracle - in you I see so much of your mother, but the DNA attached to me often overwhelms us - you are a beautiful young lady who continues to grow in love and knowledge of your parents and your older siblings, carving a path of greatness.

I am so thankful for parents who have shown me that learning, growing, and trying to be better people is a lifetime responsibility. They raised me to be the Christian man I am. Still today as an older man I am vastly dependent on their wisdom, experience, and God-following character. When I grow up I do want to be like them, as they labor to be like Christ.

As parents go, I am also thankful for Pam's parents. They love completely and unconditionally, even though I am grafted into their family through marriage, they truly show love in that they did not choose me - they were stuck with me.

I thank God every day for the gifts He has given me - for beautiful sunshiny days I can be out umpiring baseball or even when I was coaching. Thank You Lord for the ability to talk to folks, any folks and make friends.

I am thankful for a family; aunts, uncles, cousins too numerous to name individually yet as a collective they have taught me, supported me, and even rebuked me to make me the man I am.

For friends who tolerate my silliness, my immaturity, and all my goofiness and yet still want to hang out and talk with me.

I am so very thankful for the mistakes I've made, the lessons I've learned. I need only think of the 'what ifs' to know that resentment and bitterness are not helpful. Things could be much, much worse, shining a beacon as evidence of God's providence in my steps even though I traveled the wrong path often.

The thankfulness in my heart is also extends to the opportunity for multiple chances. As I said in the beginning, I feel like I fail so often and see others walk through life without consequence. That is how I feel, even though my brain knows that is false. Maybe my next choice will succeed. I look back and see God's success in many of my choices.

Sports Movies

"When this old world starts getting me down ..." I don't go to the roof - I watch a movie. Recently I conducted a very unscientific poll of astute men and women who are my personal Facebook friends. I inquired about the three best sports movies ever. A sampling of several (17 out of the over 400 to be exact) shows that the favorite movie is The Natural. Twenty Four different movies were selected, and baseball was the overwhelming favorite sport of the movies, but maybe that is because so many more baseball movies exist compared to the other sports.

What conclusions can we draw? At most two. First, I don't like The Natural so I am not a popularity kind-of-guy. Also, I am in to the more obscure sports movies and not the popular ones. I just thought I would preface this little rant with a true fact from my life.

I am excited about this football season. I have goose bumps thinking that this year's World Series may go seven games. Every hockey club in the NHL has the hope of this year being their year. I love sports. I love movies. I love to laugh.  The merging of these three loves brings me to the doorstep of Caddyshack, Bull Durham, and Slapshot. The Sandlot, A League of Their Own, and Necessary Roughness are also movies that make laughter instead of drama.

If I need a little inspiration, Remember The Titans, is on my watch list, along with Rocky, Miracle, and Invincible. If I am feeling sentimental, The Greatest Game Ever Played, Hoosiers, and The Blind Side are in my DVD player.

The absolute favorite DVD of mine is the Denver Broncos Anthology 2 Disc history of the Broncos from 1960 through Elway's retirement. Listening to Bob Martin, Larry Zimmer, and Dave Logan recount the NFL franchise from it's most inept until it's Super Bowl victories.

At my house, if I am watching a Sports movie or a Western, there is plenty of room on the couch to watch with me, because I am the only one watching.

Brain Power - Amazing

"A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." James 1.8 KJV

 

"It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it."

Aristotle

 

"And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Philippians 4.8 NLT
 

 “The man who thinks he can and the man who thinks he can't are both right." Henry Ford

When I was a wee lad, I had a very sharp mind. I absorbed everything; books, conversations, games, music, movies, television, and anything else that crossed my path. Unfortunately, I learned to be lazy and act the fool so that I never had to work hard. I graduated from High School, but with my mortar board and diploma things like study skills and drive to learn stayed behind.

 

Then as a young adult I was a mess - Bitter, immature, and flopping around from school to school, job to job until I had two kids, one divorce, and was working at a church that didn't want me around, as well as a second job as a Security Officer. My life was not where I'd dreamed it would be. I did nothing to attain my dreams, and while God and I were on a first name basis, the body of Christ and I had issues. I watched as friends had mentors and accountability partners, and I had nothing of the kind. I blamed everyone else for my plight, my lack of success career-wise, family-wise, and just plain inner me -wise - as if all around me those people were a sticky food substance and I was a Teflon pan in which nothing could stick. For you youngsters who are lost with the Teflon analogy, Google it.

My career as a youth pastor was over. My new path as a bitter divorced father was moving down the road and accelerating when God put an angel in my path. I met an amazing woman that was going through a divorce and she had three amazing children. She wasn't hateful or bitter toward her ex outwardly. She didn't use her children as power play pieces to emasculate or denigrate him. Instead, she allowed him to pay less child support than the court ordered, just to use what was needed, and still allow him to live. She was sweet, nurturing, and patient - qualities I truly admired in a person that had her heart ripped by infidelity of her spouse.

Her love and her relationship with God were so healthy and helpful to me as I began to crawl out of the muck I had been living in spiritually. As I reminisce I can see clearly now that God let me talk to Him in anger, in frustration, in contriteness, and even in reverence. Pam was a beautiful example of joy, love, and patience, and I began to see there was a big difference between loving someone unconditionally and not accepting their behavior if it was improper or incorrect.

So now, close to twenty years have flown by since this angel took my heart and gave me hers. I have been unsuccessful many more times than I have been triumphant at showing consistently how deep and strong my love for her has become. I don't deserve her at all, but as Christ loves us, she continually personifies that covenant of love we made to each other. So you've been reading for five paragraphs and you are asking, "What does any of this have to do with the title?" The answer is maybe more complicated than I want it to be, and since my own deficiency in communicating is a thorn in my flesh I hope I can clearly explain.

 When I sit and look at my past, both distant and most current, I can see mistakes. When I envision my future, I can't get past mistakes I've already made. Numerous conversations with Pam, and other family tell me decisively that "Do it!" is the directive, but failure haunts me. My brain has convinced me that regardless of evidence to the contrary I can not even start, let alone succeed. I KNOW this is contradictory to God's Word, as well as common sense, but the power between my ears is a crippling and divisive. Am I a mess or what? 

Sometimes Really Smart People Frustrate Me

"Talent is God-given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful." John Wooden

'I am a servant, I am listening for my name' - Larry Norman's classic Christian ballad about humility and reverence in God's presence is timeless. The apostle Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians in chapter 3, "Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” So then, no more boasting about human leaders! All things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God. (vs. 18-23)" In the news recently we have our political leaders, whether Liberal or Conservative, no matter what label they are attached to, are quibbling and finger-pointing while the regular and common folk suffer, while they all believe they are the smartest one in the room.

We recently have heard men paid to talk on radio and TV vilifying a woman for being on a committee for College Football improvements. The article is here In a related topic, a pitcher in the playoffs verbally attacked a reporter/analyst for his assessment of said pitcher, saying no one should say anything unless they played the game. The article is found here While a former or current player has a specific and intrinsic point of view, there are others who are around the game on a full time basis, and have eyes and a brain and can make an evaluation. There are many Managers/Coaches that never played at the level they are coaching. Therefore, there are people who can evaluate, elucidate, or extrapolate without benefit of personal, hands-on experience. So why even create these issues? Ego, conceit, self-importance.

Our government leaders often act like they forget how they got there and who is their boss - Power does corrupt. O.J. Simpson, Aaron Hernandez (allegedly), Barry Bonds, Alex Rodriguez, Jayson Williams, Leonard Little, and Von Miller are just a tiny speck of examples of athletes who were so spoiled growing up because of their size and talent that skewed their perspective to allow them to think they were above all laws. I know some who struggle with believing that God is in control, and that we need to seek Him in all we do.

Oliver Wendell Holmes said "Some people are so heavenly minded they of no earthly good." There are a handful of exceptions, but The more heavenly minded you get doesn't mean more aloof or detached from society. In fact if one truly has heaven and following Christ on their mind, they are more like he was - engaged with the people, shining the Light, given to lead not sit alone in the corner. The apostle Paul definitely disagrees with Mr. Holmes, "for the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God's sight."