Social Injustices at Christmas Time

I love this picture! I wish all families could be this fortunate!!

I am neither a Liberal, nor a Conservative...I don't do labels; what I am is a fed up citizen, who has grown tired of all this political grandstanding, judgmentalism, religious posturing, and hate-mongering; and I've come to realize that the United States is no better than the average 3rd world nation! It seems the "important" people are looking down there noses at the less fortunate.

Recently, I did some research in order to comment on a post by a Facebook page I’m a fan of, concerning meeting the needs of the less fortunate because you may be the hand of God to them; and the statistics I learned about ticked me off.

So, please forgive the rant…but, pay attention to what I’m about to say!

It’s the Christmas season; but there are a few things we seem to have forgotten. The cold reality of the destitute in the USA…

Recent Statistics (within the last 2 years)

• Vacant Houses – 14.2 million
• Wasted food (not eaten or sold) – 133 billion pounds
• Homeless – 578,424 men, women and children

That is downright disgraceful!! According to the Conservative Right, the United States is a Christian Nation, and the greatest nation on the planet! Why then, in the name of all that is decent, are these statistics even a reality??

Don’t want the US Government to take care of those who are less fortunate than you?? Then, stop passing the buck!!

You heard me…when you donate to a charity organization (soup kitchen, clothes closet, etc.), like any decent Christian would, you are LITERALLY passing the buck; you’re telling them it’s THEIR responsibility to care for the poor, homeless and hungry.

And, I've got a news flash for all you Conservative Right-wingers who pat yourselves on the back for being such good Christians, when you religiously donate your tax deductible contributions to charities; you're actually supporting government-funded socialist programs. You're not as against socialism as you thought, eh??

Mark 12:30-31 And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” (NLT)

Matthew 25:34-36 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’....“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’ (NLT)

However, the Conservative Right has become so busy arrogantly beating their chests over what it means to be a Christian, that they’ve forgotten what He commanded!! This is what happens when one becomes "high and mighty" in their own sight (Romans 12:13), they lose sight of the greatest commandment we were given! 

I was homeless, at one point in my life; it's not a lifestyle anyone desires, trust me. Most of the homeless and destitute don’t get seen by those charity organizations; which is why they panhandle...in an attempt to survive, one more day/night. And all of these organizations are bound by rules and regulations (imposed on them by the government) that make it very difficult to properly see to anyone's needs!!

Whenever I had a job, I always looked for someone to help; I’ve bought food and drink for homeless people who ask me for help, many times. Even when I didn’t have a job, I still tried to meet the needs of the less fortunate. I may not have been “earning my keep”, but I still tried to help those who didn’t have anything.

Sometimes I would deliberately ask them how they were doing, and wait to hear them tell me what they need. If I couldn’t fill that need, myself, I would pray that someone would come into their lives that could; but, I always tried to meet their needs, whenever possible.

That’s what Jesus said we should do…take care of each other!! There’s even a stipulation as to whom we should be caring for…when you did it to the least of these. According to Jesus Christ, Himself, we are SUPPOSED to be caring for those who are less fortunate than ourselves.

If you don’t want “Big Gov” to do it, get off your religious high horses and start doing it yourself!! Share what God has blessed you with…not with a charity organization, but with an actual needy person.

Buy them some food, or clothing! Put them up in a hotel, if you don’t want them in your house. Help them find a job; or hire them, if you own a business!! Find a way to fix up those abandoned houses, and let a homeless family occupy them! Show some compassion and empathy....HELP THEM!!

I’m not just saying do these because it’s December, and we’re gearing up for the Christmas holiday…I’m saying do it EVERY day of the year!! BE the Light of Christ to those who have no hope!!

The Liberal Left wants the world to be a better place for all human beings. They believe in fairness, and equality among ALL people. In fact, I've met more Liberals who are more compassionate, in their every-day lives, than most Conservative Right-wingers. Ain't that something!

Jesus had compassion on the weak (Matthew 9:36)…we need to practice that, too. THAT is how we’re going to make this world a better place, for everyone!!

Merry Christmas?? Not for the forgotten...

This is a scene from the story "The Little Match Girl"
I encourage you to read it...this is what we're doing to our own homeless.

Stardate 92610.14 (geek moment)

For those of you who are not familiar with all things Star Trek, I’ll translate the Stardate for you....today is January 3, 2015; and I woke up at 6:42am. I’m geeking out, only because I woke up!!!

Let me explain....

The day I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer, my doctor also said, “So...this is what you’ll die from.” I defied is claim; but later learned that, statistically speaking, the average survival rate is 2½ years. My loves.....that’s today; as of this day, it’s been 2½ years since I was diagnosed!!

AND I’M STILL ALIVE!!!

I’m in tears, as I praise God for the privilege of being alive, to share this with you. As many of you know, while I was in the hospital, having been newly diagnosed, my oldest daughter prayed for my healing. As she was praying, she was led to read John11:3-4 from her Bible. And I've been hanging onto that promise, every day.

According to the American Cancer Society,  the 5-year survival rate for Metastatic Breast Cancer (Stage 4) is 22%. I was never given an “expiration date”, so I fully intend to be one of those who survives well beyond the first 5 years. Bring it on!! LOL!

Another one of my favorite Bible verses is, Psalm 118:24; I will, indeed, rejoice in this day! Rejoice with me, my loves....it’s a new day, and we’re alive and well!

I hope you have a stellar day, today!!

The Savvy Survivor - A New Chapter

First, I want to thank all of you for your love, prayers and support, since I announced the death of my estranged husband. It has, truly, meant a lot to me! One of my Twitter fans even said, as an encouragement, that now is the time for me to prove my title...The Savvy Survivor.

Typically, when I hit the emotional wall, like this, I would resort to binge eating, drinking alcohol, or smoking to cope with my nerves. I can’t do either of those, anymore...because they would do more harm, than good. So, I need to find another way to cope with this massive roller coaster of emotions I find myself on, at this time. A niece of mine, whom I’m very close to, suggested I vent in the form of a blog.

So, until I can function, again, as a normal human being, this blog will contain entries full of despair, confusion, grief, and anger, from time to time. Please bear with me, my loves...I pray I can breathe again, soon!

I met James two years out of high school...we had gone to the same high school, but ran with different crowds. The day we officially met, there was a connection almost immediately. And, even back then, we had some obstacles to overcome; he was often times, moody and distant, and I never could figure out why. The reasons he’d give me never made sense.

We broke up more times, during the 24 years we knew each other, than I can count! And, the only breakup that was my idea was the one that led to our divorce, back when our kids were little; the darkness he had allowed himself to get swallowed up by, had caused him to become violent, and I was genuinely afraid for me and the kids. I had no choice, but to leave.

Hardly anyone I know (family and friends), was able to understand why I kept getting back together with him...and our getting re-married blew everyone away! Some people even called me a fool. My family didn't like him, all that much, because of the way he treated me, when the darkness rolled in; what they still don’t understand, is that I knew him well enough to know the “asshole” behavior (pardon my use of terms) wasn't his fault...it wasn't intentional. I may have been the only one who could see that.

What was James' fault, was that he never sought help for this mental disease (I believe he was bipolar). He didn't want to be labeled “crazy”, so he never got tested for depression, or bipolar disorder, or anything of that nature. The only disease he got help for, was diabetes...it was a physical illness, not a mental one.

After we separated, this time, I found myself getting caught up in all the negative energy a few of my family members were sending out; he was being accused of plotting and scheming against me, and I joined in. How else would they see it, when James had convinced me to sign away the remaining child support he owed me, and then we fell apart (again)? I even questioned whether or not he ever loved me, at all....verbally, in an e-mail to him. And now, I wish I could tell him I know the truth; after speaking with a long-time friend of his, I know now, he really did love me. I'm sorry, I couldn't see it, then.

Why is it that we never really know someone, until after they’re gone?? I also found out from a conversation with my youngest daughter after she had contacted James' mother, he only abandoned me, when I told him I was diagnosed with breast cancer, because he didn't believe me...he and I weren't on good terms, at the time. I wish I had known that, then...I would have sent him my medical file.

If I could go back in time, to the day we met, and do it all again...I would. The only thing I would do differently is insist that he get help for his mental distress, and get on medication to control it, once I saw that breaking up had become a habit.

Knowing (now) how much he loved me, I could have shown him some tough love and not taken him back, until he got help....we would have avoided getting divorced, in the first place, if I had insisted back then. I’m sure it would have helped.

When it was good between me and James, it was SOOO good; but, when it was bad...it was just easier to hate each other. The emotional roller coaster he and I had been on, all those years, took its toll on our relationship, in the end. I know he loved me, as much as I loved him; but, the darkness that kept swallowing him up, always managed to build a wall between us. Until now, no matter how many time the darkness came between us, we managed to dig through the wall, and find our way back to each other.

This time, the darkness won.

And now, I find myself experiencing emotions I never knew I had; and ones I don’t want to feel! This morning, on my personal Facebook page, I made this statement, as if I were talking to James...

“It's been a week, since you took your life; and, even though, we weren't speaking to each other, I found a certain sense of peace knowing you were still out there....somewhere....being angry at me. What am I going to do, now??”

I’m lonely, and distressed; I feel empty and incomplete...angry, lost, guilty. And, I’m experiencing all of these emotions, and more, all at the same time; it’s dizzying! I saw a picture of James, from back in high school (senior photo), yesterday, and felt like I got punched in the gut!

I’m trying hard to focus on the good times James and I shared; but then I end up sobbing, hysterically, because the realization hits me...we’ll never have any more good times, together. Right now...I'd settle for an argument!

Father God, please help me get through this!!! Hold me in your arms, and help me to see that I will be alright, some day!!

Life Has Changed

I haven’t posted a blog in a while...I think it’s been longer than a month! Sorry about that! Here’s an update for you...

Last week, I went to Peachtree City, GA, and spent the week with my youngest daughter; I, finally, got to meet my granddaughter!! <3 It was the best week I've ever had...and I've got tons of pictures, too! Last week, I also celebrated my birthday (first birthday, officially cancer free); I’m 44 years old, now! Yay, me!!

Three generations of survivors, there! Breast cancer, a difficult pregnancy, and attempted suicide!

My birthday week was AMAZING!! I loved getting to spend time with my daughter, her boyfriend, and my granddaughter; and the boyfriend’s parents are such great people, too!! They not only picked me up, from the airport; they also dropped me off, when it was time to go home...and hugged me “good bye”! Love them!!

I have more pictures on my Facebook page (The Savvy Survivor)...including pictures of two birthday meals my daughter fixed for me! They were delish!! So was the vegan birthday cake...made from scratch!!

I was there from Monday afternoon, to Friday afternoon. Friday night, I had a strange dream, about my estranged husband (I mentioned him here); I told him he needed to be the husband he promised me he would be....his answer was, “I'm sorry; I can’t”. A few hours after I woke up, Saturday morning, I got told something that has changed my life, forever.

I was told he had taken his own life, Friday evening. Now, I understand why he told me he can’t be the husband he promised he’d be, in my dream. He had struggled with bipolar disorder (un-diagnosed), for quite a number of years; and was diabetic, as well. I’m coping with this, the best I can...we never resolved the issues that split us up. I’m also having a hard time dealing with the fact that he took his life, the day after my birthday.

My youngest daughter, and son, are his children; she's dealing with his death, much the same way I am...and, as of this post, I haven't heard back from my son.

The Bible says murder is a sin (Exodus 20:13), and killing yourself is murder. However, I am choosing to believe that God went to him, at his final breath, and he asked God for forgiveness; if that’s true, he’s in Heaven, waiting for me....and we’ll see each other, again, some day.

I made this, to honor him....

My loves, I am begging you....please don’t consider taking your own life, just because things may seem a bit difficult; suicide is not the answer, it just creates more problems!!

Talk to someone...reach out for help!! It’s there...someone will always be there to help you through the bad times! You're NOT alone!!

Thank you for your love and support; it really means a lot to me! God bless you!! oxoxox

It's Christmas Eve!

Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. (Isaiah 43:19 KJV)

As I sit and connect with God, this morning, He brings me to this Scripture, and it got me thinking.

I've often said that it’s not a great idea to assume what God’s doing, or thinking. That means you’re putting yourself in His place, and you believe you know more than He does (I'm guilty of this, myself...but I've learned my lesson!) Lucifer did that....and was thrown out of Heaven for it.

All the time, I hear people ask, “If God's so "all powerful", why does He allow bad things to happen? Why doesn't He just stop them?” Well...if someone comes chasing after you, with a big stick, aren't you going to run for cover?? How do any of us know that maybe God’s allowing all these bad things, because He knows they’ll bring us closer to Him??

The Bible says, in Psalm 9:9, many people are suffering— crushed by the weight of their troubles. But the Lord is a refuge for them, a safe place they can run to. (Easy to Read Version)

Now, I’m not assuming to know what God thinks, or anything...I’m smarter than that! LOL!! But, think about it...the Scripture, above, tells us He does new things to make life a little more bearable!

For instance, consider all these different Bible translations we have available to us, these days. So many people get offended at them, citing that the King James is the ONLY translation there should be; but, how do any of us know that it wasn't God’s idea to create easier to read versions of the Bible??

I’d consider that making “a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert”. Wouldn't you??

See...thanks to all those different variations/translations, more people are getting to know God, because they can finally understand what the Bible is teaching! Granted, some of those translations have left whole verses and chapters out (not good, folks!); but if you can’t understand...

“Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:16-18 KJV)

you might be able to understand... “Be friendly with everyone. Don’t be proud and feel that you are smarter than others. Make friends with ordinary people. Don’t mistreat someone who has mistreated you. But try to earn the respect of others, and do your best to live at peace with everyone.” (same Scripture, but from the Contemporary English Version)

Folks, we’re not supposed to be fussing with each other over what God’s will is; it’s not our place to assume we know what God is up to, with all that’s going on in the world! That would be usurping OUR will, and claiming it's God's will. We’re only supposed to be concerned with how He wants us to impact the world!

That’s OUR job...the job of the Believer; and, the biggest impact would be to introduce the Savior to those who may not understand that that’s who He is.

We’re also not supposed to stand in judgment over anyone, for any reason, either, and I hear more and more Believers doing that! Jesus' own words to His followers:

Luke 6:37-38 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. (KJV)

Luke 6:37-38 Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults—unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don’t condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity. (The Message)

This is what we (the Believers) are supposed to be doing with our time...

Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (KJV)

Mark 16:15 And then he told them, “You are to go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone, everywhere. (The Living Bible)

The GOOD NEWS (aka: The Gospel) is that Jesus gave up His life, being crucified on the cross and resurrected from the dead, so no human being would have to spend eternity in Hell...we can all go to Heaven! The only “catch” is that you have to believe that...if you don’t receive what Jesus did for you, as the gift it was intended to be, you won’t make it to Heaven.

Not my rules, folks...just the truth!

Jesus even said it.... “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 ESV) The Father is God, and He lives in Heaven; none of us will ever get there, if we don’t believe that Jesus IS the Savior of the world.

The Apostle Paul taught us how to do that...

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.” (Romans 10:9-10 NIV)

You don’t have to change how you live, or think, or dress, or speak. You don’t have to convert to another religion. And you don’t have to “be a better person” before you decide to believe and confess; just do it!! And, I know, some of you are thinking, “Why would anyone give up their own life, for me??” Simple...He did it, because He loves you; and He knew that was the only way to bring you Home.

That was the whole purpose behind His birth...He came down from Heaven to bring us Home!!

John 1:14 And the Word (Christ) became flesh (human, incarnate) and tabernacled (fixed His tent of flesh, lived awhile) among us; and we [actually] saw His glory (His honor, His majesty), such glory as an only begotten son receives from his father, full of grace (favor, loving-kindness) and truth. (AMP)

And, wouldn't you say that a virgin birth was a "new thing"? It only happened once, in the history of mankind!

Enjoy your Christmas holiday!! And, God bless us....every one!

oxoxox

A Few Small Updates

Good morning, my loves! I just wanted to take a few minutes to update you on some things...the first "small update" is BIG news!!

My granddaughter has been born! She came into the world two days ago, and is the light of my life! Per my youngest daughter's wishes, I am not permitted to show you any pictures; but her name is Alice, and she weighed 8 lbs 2 oz at birth. She's beautiful!! And, officially speaking as a newborn Grammy...I can't wait to see my little angel; I'll be heading to Atlanta, in September, for the official meet-n-greet!

Next update....my chemo pill (Xeloda) is officially kicking my butt!! I was so tired, last night, I went to bed at 9:30pm (I can typically stay up until midnight). I've been able to tolerate four pills a day (haven't thrown up, yet); so after this bottle is empty, I'll take a break for a week, and start the next bottle, taking five pills a day.

My Oncologist wants to try and get me back up to six pills a day, if I can tolerate it. So far, on this reduced dose, the only side effects I'm experiencing are some minor hair loss and serious fatigue.

Last update...still praying that God will open doors for me to be able to move to Knoxville, by the end of the year. Of course, I understand that it's all about His timing, not mine. But, I've discovered that most of the apartments I qualify for have dishwashers, and some have washer/dryer hookups!

I've also discovered that there's a "Whole Foods" type store in the Knoxville area that will take food stamps (being on disability, I had to go on food stamps to be able to feed myself); and I'll be living within the city limits, so I'll be able to take the bus wherever I need to go...which will come in handy, since I don't own a vehicle! LOL!

I'm totally excited about the new life God has planned for me! And, I'm completely grateful that He continues to give me another day! I'm blessed beyond measure, and glad I can share my life with you!!

Have a great day!! oxoxox

Oops...My Life, a Month Later

Good morning! The last Blog I wrote was on June 10, 2013; it's exactly one month later. Sorry for the extended absence, I’m afraid I've had a case of writer’s block! LOL!

Not so, today…for the past two nights, I've had the same dream. In this dream, the last thing someone says to me is, “You've got your family, your friends, even your fans online….we (pointing to his wife, and himself) don’t have anyone! It’s just us!” and then, the dream fades away. I don't know who they are, or even if they're actual people; but what he said, and how he said it, broke my heart!

He sounded rather invidious that I've got all these wonderful people in my life, to support and encourage me, through whatever life throws at me. He was undeniably upset about something, although I don’t remember any other part of the dream. I also thought it was interesting that I've had this same dream, two nights in a row; so, I prayed for him and his wife, not even knowing if they were real people. I asked God to open their hearts to the truth, and show them that because they have each other, they have all they need; then I prayed that someone would come into their lives and share the love of Christ with them, so that if they're not saved they would have that opportunity….and make a new friend, to add to their support system, in the process.

I also prayed that, whatever situation they were facing that had them so distressed, would be resolved; and that God would show them favor. It’s a real blessing to be shown the favor of the Lord! I wish I could remember the rest of the dream…I could pray through their situation, if I could remember what was happening to them! Oh, well…if they are real people, and are going through something real, God can take care of it!

This recurrent dream of mine, got me thinking about my own situation, with breast cancer. I am so blessed to have such a strong support system in my family, my friends, and even you!! I want you to know, I truly appreciate having you in my life!

Having breast cancer has become more a blessing in disguise, than a curse; not only have I learned what it takes to take care of myself the way God intended, but He also opened the door for me to share this information with you, and the rest of the world. He continues to open doors for me, blessing me with much more than I deserve...and I am grateful!

I’m reminded of what the doctor at the hospital said, the day he told me “Yep, it’s breast cancer, and it’s in Stage 4”, he also said “This is what you’ll die from”. It’s been a year, folks…I was diagnosed on July 3, 2012!! I’m still alive and well, today, because God’s got a plan for my life, and He’s not done yet!

And, since I'm here, I may as well update you...I'm on another cycle of chemo. This one's a pill called Xeloda; I started taking them the last week of June, and I'm supposed to take six pills...three in the morning, and three at night. I quickly found out that that was too much to handle!

During the last weekend of June, my girls and I spent time together. It was an interesting weekend (possibly another Blog post); on that Friday, I was throwing up all day! I stopped taking the Xeloda, and realized that what was happening to me was a side effect; so I went without, for the rest of the weekend.

These two pictures are of the skyline, outside our hotel room. Isn't it gorgeous??

I got home on Monday (July 1st) and began taking a significantly reduced dose of this drug; my Oncologist had suggested that I could reduce the dosage, on pill at a time, if I got sick on the six pills a day. However, I really didn't feel comfortable experimenting on myself, like that! I don't want to keep throwing up until I've found the "magic" number! So, I reduced my dosage to one pill in the morning, and another at night. I'm not throwing up, and I feel pretty good!

I have an appointment with him, this Friday, and will be discussing my experiences on this drug. He may want me to increase the dose to the point of getting sick, and then back down, just so we can see how strong a dose I can handle, since I'm supposed to be taking six pills a day. But, I can't speculate...I'll just have to wait until Friday and see what he says. I'll make sure to keep you updated on all of that!

Hey, I'm going to go tackle my day, now. I haven't been up for that long, but I'm feeling like it's time for breakfast! LOL! You have a fantastic day, today...and may God bless you, abundantly!!

The Longest Blog Post I've Ever Written

I don’t know who’s going to read this, or what your views are, as far as believing in a Higher Power; but, I believe in a being called God, and I believe in The Bible. So, as I explain what’s on my heart, I’m going to be using Scripture references from that book, to help me convey my message. I hope that, regardless of what your spiritual beliefs are, you will take time to read this. It would make me very happy to know that you were open-minded enough to hear me out, even though you don’t believe in the same Higher Power as I do.

I love you! I just want to make that clear…I don’t care who you are, or what there is about you that I don’t fully appreciate, I still love you. John Keats said “I have been astonished that men could die martyrs for their religion – I have shudder’d at it. I shudder no more. I could be martyr’d for my religion; love is my religion. And I could die for that. I could die for you.” I could, too!

The Dalai Lama teaches about peace, love and compassion. Jesus also taught about love. Jesus said, “and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” This is the Law of Love (Mark 12:30-31)…and this is the law I live my life by. Love is MY religion.

I have often said, I do not have to agree with certain aspects that make you who you are, in order to love you. And I stand by that! If one of my friends was a serial killer, I certainly wouldn't agree with their lifestyle, but I would still love them…same with an habitual liar; I don’t appreciate that quality about a person, but I can still love them, despite their shortcomings. Or, you may be one of those few who does something that annoys me, or makes me uncomfortable around you (I wish you wouldn't be that way!)…but I still love you, regardless.

To love someone does not mean you have to accept who they are, or how they live their life; that’s not what love is. If there is something about you that I cannot accept, it doesn’t mean that I don’t love you; and not accepting something about you does not make me judgmental, either! One of my favorite movie quotes is when Forrest Gump says, “I’m not a smart man, but I know what love is.”

This is what love is…

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous, or boastful, or proud, or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

"It does not demand its own way"…for anyone to say that we have to accept them for who they are, when we tell them we love them, is demanding your own way; and that is not love. That reminds me of the recent article about the homosexual couple who are suing a bakery for turning away their business; this couple is not walking in love, because they are demanding to get their own way, knowing that this particular bakery is run by folks who view homosexuality as a sin.

This belief doesn't mean the bakers are being bigots, or unfair; it just means they’re standing by their beliefs and what the Bible says. And, by law, they don’t have to serve anyone (even straight people), if they choose not to!

Love is not tolerant of sin, but will also not hold it against us (that's the patient part, and the not keeping a record of being  wronged part). Yes, I said “us”; I’m not perfect, but I try my best. Lord knows, I fail Him daily; I’m sure there are certain things about the way I live that upset Him, or make Him uncomfortable…but, I know He loves me.

He loves all of us, regardless of how we live our lives; but He doesn't want us to live in sin! I know He expects us to correct the things that He’s does not approve of, because we are His Children. That’s the key…do you love your parents? As a child, did it make you feel good, knowing that they were proud of you, when you lived up to their standards? We CAN be loving toward each other. It’s very simple, too.

If you know they’re uncomfortable with foul language…don’t use it, when you’re around them. If you know that dressing a certain way will make someone you know uncomfortable, when you’re around them, try to dress in a way that makes them feel more secure around you. If you know talking about politics, is a sore subject for them, don’t bring it up in conversation! I’m facing a moment in my life where I’m going to have to practice that very thing; I’m going to Georgia, the end of this month.

My youngest daughter told me her boyfriend’s mother wants to meet me, while I’m there. Yay…super excited about this!! I've also been instructed to avoid certain conversation topics…namely, God and the Bible. The woman is an Atheist, and apparently views anyone who discusses God, or the Bible, as being an odd sort. Since this will be my first impression, of course, I’m going to want to make a good one….I’ll need to dress well, be polite and respectful, and refrain from preaching.

Just to make this clear, I’m not going to approach her coming off as someone who is phony; but, putting someone in an uncomfortable situation, because you can’t (or won’t) refrain from talking about things they’re uncomfortable listening to, is not a loving gesture! That conversation becomes all about you, and what you know…not about sharing what you know with them. So, I've decided that the conversations she and I will have with each other will be anything she wants to talk about! I’m sure we’ll get along just fine...we even have something in common; we're going to be Grandmothers!!

With that being said, if I've made anyone uncomfortable with this Note, I do apologize! However, I think I've managed to keep it “user friendly” for anyone…including non-Believers. We are all human beings, after all. Which brings me to my next point.

I’m sure, by now, we've all heard about the Coexist Movement. But, do any of us truly know what this movement is all about? Those involved in the movement claim that all human kind needs to be tolerant of all religions; why is this movement only interested in uniting the world’s religions?? Do you honestly know what “coexist” means, or are you just regurgitating a mantra, because it sounds nice?

The Dictionary says the word “coexist” means 1) to exist at the same time or in the same place; and 2) to exist in mutual tolerance despite different ideologies or interests (of nations or peoples).

Well, by definition, #1…we already do! We’re here, in the here and now, sharing the same planet. And, #2…that will only happen when we set our differences aside and learn to work as a people, known as the human race. As long as we separate ourselves by way of religions, political affiliations, social status, skin colors, nationalities, invisible borders, etc. (notice I used more than just religion as a factor) we will never coexist. It just can’t happen. Until we’re dead. I believe in Heaven, and Hell; and the inhabitants of both realms coexist with each other….Heaven with Heaven, Hell with Hell.

In Heaven (as in Hell), or the After Life (whatever you call it), we are all the same…there are no differences between us; no political parties, no religious denominations, no alternate “lifestyle choices”, no separate races/nationalities; and no gender differences, or different skin colors, either. We are all THE SAME! The only difference between those who are in Heaven, and those who are in Hell, is that the folks in Heaven aren't being tortured for eternity….according to the Bible, anyway. Remember, I did say that this would be a reference for me, during this Note, because I believe in what it says.

I have a lot of young friends who are quick to tease about being sent to Hell. They’ll say something, or do something that isn't entirely wholesome, and then quip “I’m going to Hell for that!” This is one of those annoyances I mentioned, earlier. I was taught that the only reason any of us would go to Hell, is if we die without accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior…that, and deliberately living a wicked life, will send anyone to Hell! So, when I hear people tease about the things that will send them to Hell, it gets on my nerves! But, if they don’t know any better, who am I to judge them…and I love them, anyway! LOL!

And the one thing that I can’t stand about society, as a whole, is the belief that if you don’t accept someone’s lifestyle choices, mannerisms, views, etc. it means that you are a bigot, a racist, or prejudiced in some form or fashion. That simply isn't true; it just means you have differing ideals than the rest of us.

For instance, the American government now has the belief that if we disagree with anything the President says or does, it automatically qualifies us as being racist, because he’s black (well, half black). Now, I’m sure that there are some folks who are racist, and that’s why they don’t agree with him…but for those of us who are not racist, being called a racist simply because we don’t agree with him, is pathetic...ans insulting! I don’t like what he's doing to my country, at all…but he is a flesh and blood human being; therefore, I love him, as a fellow human….as my neighbor (refer to the Scripture reference (Mark 12:30-31) above).

Obviously, I don’t know if you believe in Heaven, or Hell, but because I do, I gotta tell ya…I’d much rather spend eternity in Heaven, than in Hell. Using what I've been taught, I’ll give you a description of both places…you can, then, see why I've chosen Heaven!

What is Hell Like?

• Think of the worst smelling thing, on the face of the earth, and multiply that by 1,000,000.
• The Bible describes Hell as a fiery oven, the pit of darkness, a burning wind, and an unquenchable fire.
• It also says that those who end up there, will NOT get another chance to enter Heaven. It’s too late for them; they chose their destiny, and they’re stuck with it.
• Everyone who is stuck in Hell will be tortured and tormented for all eternity…no rest, no refreshment, and no peace. And, there are different levels of Hell, depending on how bad you were, while you were a human being.

 

An artist's rendition of Hell

What is Heaven Like?

• In Heaven there is no sickness, death, poverty, hunger, loneliness, sadness, hate, etc.
• In the book of Revelations, the Bible describes what Heaven looks like. I think it looks beautiful!! (Revelation 21:11-27)

o   It shone with the glory of God and sparkled like a precious stone—like jasper as clear as crystal. (v 11)

o   The wall was made of jasper, and the city was pure gold, as clear as glass. (v 18)

o   The wall of the city was built on foundation stones inlaid with twelve precious stones: the first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst. (v 19-20)

o   The twelve gates were made of pearls - each gate from a single pearl! And the main street was pure gold, as clear as glass. (v 21)

o   And the city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light. (v 23)

An artist's rendition of Heaven

There’s nothing beautiful about Hell, and none of us will be partying once we’re there.

However, there will be a HUGE party, in Heaven! According to the Bible, Jesus spoke in parables, so the people of that day could understand what He was telling them about God and the Kingdom of Heaven. In one parable, He said the King is preparing a Great Feast for everyone…the King had invited many people, but most had made excuses as to why they couldn't make it; and, there were some who deliberately tortured and/or killed the messengers the King had sent out to extend the invitation. Those who have rejected the King’s invitation will be thrown into the outer darkness (a reference to Hell).

I’m all about speaking the truth…I did say lying was a pet peeve of mine, right? I know some of you won’t accept what I've said, and you might even get angry with me for saying it, but I refuse to water down the truth. That would be like saying, “It’s not something I would do, but I’m not you”….instead of saying, “that’s not right, and you shouldn't do it!” (This is not being judgmental…this is called correction)

Folks…according to what I've been taught, God (or what/whoever it is) expects us to live a morally upright life. Morals are not subject to interpretation, either; right is right, and wrong is wrong. If something was wrong, back in the day…it is still wrong, in this day! And, to believe that morals change with the times, is to be a fool! Lusting after someone you’re not in a relationship with is morally wrong; as is being a liar, a thief, a bigot, a hypocrite, a murderer, a sexual deviant, etc. Wrong is wrong....period!!

Think of God as you would a good parent…a good parent will not tolerate their child’s bad behavior, even though they love their child; instead they will punish them, for what they've done wrong, and then discipline them to know why that behavior was unacceptable, and how to avoid getting into trouble again. They teach their children to raise their standards, because they want them to have a good life.

If we want to get to Heaven, we have to live our human lives by God’s standards…not by human standards. I’m just as culpable as any of you; I know I don’t live 100% according to God’s standards, but that is my goal. I want to live my life with the hope that one day He’ll look at me and say He’s proud of me for doing so well. Then I’ll be allowed into Heaven.

Here’s a list of the people who will NOT be allowed into Heaven, according to the Bible (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)….

• the unrighteous - one who violates justice; also one who is an habitual liar/deceiver
• the fornicator – prostitutes (that’s literally what the term for fornicator mean, in this verse!)
• the idolater – a worshiper of false gods; anyone who puts anything above God, in their life
• the adulterer – one who is faithless and ungodly
• the effeminate – men who don’t act like men (they appear, and behave, as women); also a man who subjects his body to unnatural lewdness

o   “unnatural lewdness” - indecency, unchastity, incontinence, fleshliness, vulgarity, lechery, wantonness, lubricity, lasciviousness, aphrodisia, bodily appetite, libidinousness, sensuality, licentiousness, voluptuousness, lecherousness, profligacy, dissoluteness, obscenity, salacity, scurrility, coarseness, carnal passion, grossness, boorishness, sensuous desire, vileness, salaciousness, pornography, fleshly lust, depravity, brutishness, lustfulness, carnality, ruttishness, pederasty, nymphomania, pruriency, prurience, incontinency, corruptness, satyriasis, corruption, raunchiness, unnatural desires, dirtiness, ribaldry, incest, indelicacy, incestuousness, concupiscence, eroticism, sadism

•   the abuser of oneself with mankind – one who lies with a male as with a female, sodomite
• A sodomite is a person who engages in lascivious behavior, is unloving/abusive to others, one who degrades or humiliates others, a person who engages in bestiality (sex with animals)

• the thief – persons who embezzles (misappropriates, misuses, cheats, etc), pilfers (steals, takes things that are not theirs to take, poaches); also, a person who does not care to instruct others, but abuses their confidence for their own gain
• the covetous – people who are not satisfied with what they have, and want more (especially if it belongs to someone else)
• the drunkard – alcoholics; those who intentionally get intoxicated
• the reviler/railer – a person who expresses objections or criticisms in bitter, harsh, or abusive language
• the extortionist – a person who commits extortion (coercion, blackmail, a shakedown)

According to what I've been taught, unless those people turn away from their sins, and receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior, they are going to Hell (whomever they are); the choice to do so, or not, is theirs. God gave us all something called “free will”, which is the right to choose for ourselves how we want to live our lives.

You don’t have to accept that Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins, and that we need to turn from those sins and live according to God’s standards, but I sure hope you do! This is why I will always share what I've learned, because I don’t want to see anyone go to Hell, when they die!

Once you've received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, and have turned away from your sins, God counts you blameless, and righteous…so, if you are one of those people who are destined for Hell, and you receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior (and you turn away from your sins), nothing you did prior to that moment matters anymore, and you are now destined for Heaven, now that you are “in Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:17)!

And, if you slip up, all you have to do is repent (apologize for goofing up), and try harder to abstain from sin, from then on. I make it a practice to do that, several times a week…because I just don’t know what behaviors I've done, that He’s frowned upon!

If we could all learn to live by the Law of Love (Mark 12:30-31) and stop being so critical, compassionless, and/or verbally abusive toward each other…the human race would accomplish SOOOO much! And, yes…even non-Believers can love their neighbors, as they would love themselves.

Sorry this one was so long…but, this was something that was laying heavy on my heart, and I just knew I needed to share it with you! God bless you for reading it all the way through!! LOL!!

Love you!! oxoxox