Sunday, August 30, 2015

A Proud Father

There are times when a parent sees such large steps of maturity in their child that the pride almost beats out of their chest. In our 10am service on August 30, 2015, Allena is doing a short question- and- answer session with Pastor Kelly in front of the Eastside Community Church congregation about her six month endeavor with Youth with a Mission (see Distracted).
Public speaking is a step outside of Allena’s comfort zone (an un-favorite thing. The four questions she was asked by our pastor were given to her in so she could prepare them in advance. Here are her exact answers (excluding grammar corrections:
Q1: “Allena, how have you grown in your walk with God this past year?”
A1: “I have learned to depend on Christ, and trust Him more. I read The Bible more, and use it as a shield against the Devil. I use to be a lot worse. I had friends that influenced me. I would go and occasionally drink with them, and I would stay out all hours of the morning. I would go to church rarely, and wasn’t acting like a Christian. Now, I am committing my life to Christ and the missionary field.”
Q2: “Tell us what you are getting ready to do in a couple of weeks?”
A2:  “I will be moving to Akron for YWAM (Youth with a Mission) where I will complete 3 months of DTS training (Discipleship Training School), and 2 months of outreach in Haiti. I will be going jobless for months, and sharing a house with about 10 people. I will be giving my life up to Christ to learn where I want to go in life.”
Q3: “Allena, why is this opportunity so important to you?”
A3: “I feel like this will help me figure out what I want to do in life, and to help me choose a career path. At first, I didn’t know what I wanted, but now I have some hope.
Q4: “How can we participate with you?
A4: “I would love prayer, drawings, or cards from the kids! I will miss everyone. And if God leads you to, helping me with funds would be great! This is my first time away from home, and anything will help!
At approximately 10:28am, Allena was called up to the front of the room by the pastor as an upcoming missionary. She was clothed in a royal blue designed maxi dress, braided silver slippers, hair to her shoulders (colored the previous night to a beautiful shade of red and her mom’s has very light shade of purple). Both her notes and her good luck charm were securely in her hands.
Her good luck object turned out to be a warn, taped, sepia-toned, wallet picture of her late grandfather (Robert Zarbaugh) as an eighteen year-old first class Navy seaman in World War II.
The screens in back of Allena showed a picture of her holding a coconut from her one week mission’s trip to Costa Rica with the ECC youth group in the summer of 2014. Allena spoke like a confident pro with the brief time she had. Her only sign of nervousness was her fidgeting hands. (Her memory allowed her to use most of what she prepared above.) This was all good practice for speaking at YWAM in the near future.
I was thrilled to discover the ECC mission’s board supported Allena’s endeavors with a generous check (for the size of our church) at the conclusion of her Q&A session with the pastor. They would also help out with support for her mission’s trip to Haiti in future. (Updates from Allena about her progress in the future would be helpful.)
Many other individuals have also responded positively to our daughter’s plea for financial assistance with YWAM. Allena’s time concluded with group prayer (with Bobbi, me, and the pastor’s parents with Pastor Kelly leading) as the congregation communicated to God at their seats (some out loud and some silently in their hearts). It was all quite noisy, but a wonderful way that I physically felt the love ECC had for Allena. (Bobbi and I were in no way in Allena’s newest adventure alone.)
Sometimes life is so wonderful that one can hardly stand it. Cherish these times. I feel they are a Heavenly Father’s way of demonstrating His love and concern for what is important to us in our daily existence. There is no need to fret anymore God has this time of my life (and Allena) within His control. I must tell myself to inhale fully (all my stupid worries), and exhale with a heart full of praise.
NOTE: The attached selfie of wife and daughter was taken same day as this post (at our church). There is also a picture of Allena’s good luck charm. Airplane in sky backdrop was chosen by Allena. (This is her favorite part of any long distance trip.)

Friday, August 28, 2015

Ring a Ding, Ding

In the mid 1980’s (when I was in my twenties), I worked as a full-time cashier (and stock person) at a local convenience store in the Bexley neighborhood. The only thing I remember from this job is the one time my slowness as a cashier caused me to have angry, grumbling customers lined up almost to the middle of the store.
It is not a fond memory of mine. I still have paranoia about being a cashier today (even in my fifties). I know the United Product Code (UPC) came into wide use for groceries around 1974. In my befuddled mind, I do not recollect scanning items as today, but individually typing prices in manually.
Today’s second day of training (per my boss, Johnson) at Staples was more organized as I learned all the intricacies of using the cash register. Current day user-friendly registers (compared to what I used long ago) are good at letting you know exactly what needs to be done next.
By the middle of my shift I was doing simple transaction without any assistance. (Of course, product and ink cartridge returns, on-line orders, and coupons were another issue I was not yet comfortable with yet.)
Psalms 27:1 (of The Message) says, “Light, space, zest-that’s God! So, with him on my side I’m fearless, afraid of no one and nothing.” I can’t tell you how good it felt today to conquer a long time fear. I can ring people up, and not be frightened by long lines. (I will pleasantly serve them as soon as I can.)

 What apprehension has you paralyzed with uncertainty. Chances are the monster in your head is not as horrible as the situation it represents. Why be stuck in the past when the victor’s option (with God’s help) is so much more delightful?

Thursday, August 27, 2015

Chopped

It was a Wednesday evening work shift at Meijer; I immediately spotted “Craig,” a business associate of my late father. In the summer of 1978 when my father died in a car accident, Craig was chosen to replace (my irreplaceable dad) as the second barber at the Drexel Barbershop in Bexley, OH, by the other barber/business partner, “Lou.”
It’s been a long time since I’ve thought about this part of my childhood. According to Craig, barbering at the Drexel Barbershop has slowed down to a less profitable trickle.
With the advent of cutting one’s hair at home and chain hair styling salons, the male species has forgotten the ambiance of the whole barbering experience. Lou has retired, and was replaced by Craig’s non-punctual son. (That would be too close for comfort if you ask me.)
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 tells us there is a time for everything. Life is like an ever-changing, rippling brook. As the circle of life continues, homes need renovated, what was becomes something entirely different, and one’s existence can often become a test in adapting to unexpected challenges.
Reminiscing is often needed (for introspection and connection), but getting stuck in a pattern of negative thinking that is unprofitable drains one of energy (Proverbs 17:22). Stay current with your life, and always adapt to whatever is coming next down the way. Strive for completeness, happiness, and contentment always.

Accidental Reoccurences?

Some things in life happen more than once in a short period of time, and one may wonder the chance of that happening twice is rare. Though my official start date with Staples is September 7, 2015, I’ve already had the opportunity to work four day hours to get better acclimated with the Copy and Print department way of doing my new job.
My first-ever shift at the Easton Market Staples (Wednesday, August 26, 2015, 9am-1pm) turned out to be both good and bad. Among the more negative experiences was I being unaware of how to enter the store before it opened, having no password to check in and out for the day, the person I was shadowing rather noisily, Jinger, was unaware I would be there so she had no idea what my supervisor (Johnson) wanted me to accomplish.
Among the great things I completed was the stapling (and restapling) of sixty instruction manuals, the sanitizing of the nasty-smelling employee refrigerator (because I was bored), dumping old documents into the shredding bin, and helping a customer find the right version of Matthew 18:4-5 for a banner (yellow in color, red lettering, four babies of various nationalities and race) to coincide with a single parent fair with young kids held by a church. (I felt competent in Bible research with my background.)
We finally settled on the New Century Version which simply stated, “The greatest person in the kingdom of heaven is the one who makes himself humble like a child. Whoever accepts a child in my name accepts me.” I blessed her efforts, and said I felt with resources being provided that profound difference would be made in someone’s life.
The crowning achievement of my brief shift at Staples happened when I was bending in from a metal chair to better clean the inside of the refrigerator. The strenuous effort caused my black pants to rip from the backside to underneath. My long red Meijer luckily covered my shame. In my attempt to be the good Mr. Clean I disposed of someone’s lunch that looked bad, but wasn’t. 
From 5-10pm the same day at Meijer, the monotony of greeting was broken up by giving customers directions to the shopping carts, guest services (for returns) and bathrooms, assisting a customer in finding shoe trees (in the shoe department), returning refrigerated food items to their proper safe location, checking bathrooms, and repeatedly telling patrons I was fine when they asked.
The crowning achievement for this job happened during my fifteen minute lunch break (around 7:30pm). Sitting down hard on a break room chair, I once again felt a familiar ripping on the backside of tan pants I was wearing. Once again my red Meijer’s work shirt saved the day as the accident was hidden until I gladly exited the facility at 10pm.

Was this just a coincidence, or were my ruined pants (in black and tan) part of a bigger life lesson? Crazy (and sometimes humorous) things happen.  There is no logical explanation. Many times one has to “go with the flow.” If you can adjust to your circumstances, it much better than emotionally breaking because you will not change with the times. (Therapy is not cheap.) Ask for help when it is needed. There are those who want lend a hand, but you need to be courageous enough to step out on faith.

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Woman to Woman: Drop the Truth Bomb

Dear Caitlin Jenner,
Being a female, I have never felt brave or courageous or under pressure to pick my shoes or dress. Courage as a female Is facing your days with a bald head and battle scars from cancer.
Courage as a female is carrying a child for nine months that you weren’t planning on having. Courage as a female is being mom and dad to a child while putting food on the table because you are all that child has.
Courage as a female is busting your butt to make it in a man’s world. Courage as a female is to learn to walk out after you have been beaten by someone who “loves” you.
We don’t play dress up to feel brave. We are brave in our raw, authentic selves. You will find the most brave women in this world do not dress in the finest fashions adorned by jewels and make-up. They carry crowns of grey hair, wrinkles, tired bodies, and weathered hands. Learn the difference.*
Sincerely,
Michelle Smith Glass
(A Real Woman)

*Taken from www.thepoliticalinsider.com

Dadisms (and Momisms Too)

1.   “You’re going to sit there until you eat your dinner. I don’t care if you sit there all night.”
2.   “When I say no, I mean no. Why? Because, that’s why.”
3.   “If you don’t stop crying, I’ll give you something to cry about.”
4.   “I’m spanking you because I love you. This hurts me a lot more than it hurts you.”
5.   “What’s so funny? Wipe that smile off your face.”
6.   “Don’t ask me, ask your mother.”
7.   “This is your last warning.”
8.   “Don’t you know money doesn’t grow on trees?”
9.   “Son, don’t ever get married. And tell that to your kids.”
10.         “When I was your age….”
11.         “Why can’t you act more like your brother (or sister)? They are always so well-behaved.” (Mine)
12.         “Someday when you have kids, they will be your repayment (with their behavior) for all the wonderful challenges your childhood allowed me to experience.” (Mine)
The First Baptist Chariot Newsletter, June 2010, issue 3

Notoable Canine and Feline Quotes

Cat Quotes
“There is no snooze button on a cat who wants breakfast.” Unknown
“To a cat, ‘No’ means not while I’m looking.” Unknown
“Cats are smarter than dogs. You can’t get eight cats to pull a sled through snow.” Jeff Valdez
“I love cats because I enjoy my home; and, little by little, they become its visible soul.” Jean Cocteau
“Thousands of years ago, cats were worshiped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this.” Anonymous
“I put down my book, The Meaning of Zen, and see the cat smiling into her fur as she delicately combs it with her rough pink tongue. ‘Cat, I would lend you this book to study but it appears you have already read it.’ She looks up and gives me her full gaze. ‘Don’t be ridiculous,’ she purrs, ‘I wrote it.’” Dilys Laing
“Cat’s motto: No matter what you’ve done wrong, always try to make it look like the dog did it.” Unknown
“I don’t think it is so much the actual bath that most cats dislike; I think it’s the fact that they have to spend a good part of the day putting their hair back in place.” Debbie Peterson
“If I tried to tell you how much I love my cats, you wouldn’t understand me – unless your heart is also meow-shaped and covered in stray fur.” Lexie Saige

Dog Quotes
“It came to me that every time I lose a dog, they take a piece of my heart with them. And every new dog who comes into my life gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all the components of my heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are.” Unknown
“Dogs come when they’re called. Cats take a message and get back to you later.” Mary Bly
“A person can learn a lot from a dog, even a loopy one like ours. Marley taught me about living each day with unbridled exuberance and joy, about seizing the moment and following your heart. He taught me to appreciate the simple things – a walk in the woods, a fresh snowfall, a nap in a shaft of winter sunlight. And as he grew old and achy, he taught me about optimism in the face of adversity. Mostly, he taught me about friendship and selflessness and, above all else, unwavering loyalty.” John Grogan, Author of Marley and Me
“Dogs are our link to paradise. They don’t know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring – it was peace.” Milan Kundera
“My goal in life is to be as good of a person as my dog already thinks I am.” Unknown
“He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion.” Unknown
 “All in the town were still asleep,
When the sun came up with a shout and a leap.
In the lonely streets unseen by man,
A little dog danced. And the day began.”
Robert Rupert
“I look into your great brown eyes,
Where love and loyal homage shine,
And wonder where the difference lies
Between your soul and mine!”
- Josiah G. Holland
Think About It
“The difference between friends and pets is that friends we allow into our company, pets we allow into our solitude.” – Robert Brault
 “Pets are humanizing. They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life.” James Cromwell
“We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.” Immanuel Kant
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” Anatole France

Ø From www.canidae.com

The Mother’s Psalm

The Lord is my Navigator, I shall not rush.
He maketh me to relax at all traffic lights.
He leadeth me through shopping hassles.
He restoreth my composure.
He giveth me strength to make ends meet for my family’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of laundry, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me.
Thy perspective and sense of humor, they comfort me.
Thou prepares me a table before me with the assistance of takeout.
Surely clutter and confusion shall follow me most of the days of my life, but I shall dwell in a happy home forever. Amen.

The First Baptist Chariot Newsletter, May 2010, issue 4

A Woman’s Random Thoughts

1.   Women over 50 don’t have babies because they would put them down, and forget where they left them.
2.   One of life mysteries is how a 2 pound box of candy can make a woman gain 5 pounds.
3.   The best way to forget all your troubles is to wear tight shoes.
4.   The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight because by then, your body and your fat are really good friends.
5.   A friend of mine confused her Valium with her birth control pills. She had 14 kids, but doesn’t really care.
6.   I read this article that said the typical symptoms of stress are eating too much, impulse buying, and driving too fast. Are they kidding? That is my idea of a perfect day!

The First Baptist Chariot Newsletter, October 2010, issue 9

A Student’s Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,
Sometimes summer seems too short, but I’m glad that school is starting because I want to see my friends. Help me focus on my studies as much as the fun.
I want people to know that I follow You, but sometimes it’s a little scary. Give me patience when teachers are boring, classes uninteresting or slower students ask for help. Help me avoid temptations. Show me how to live a life that is pleasing to You. If I am in danger, protect and guide me. I want to look cool, but there are so many things I don’t know.
Please give me strength to refuse the things that can hurt me and avoid hanging out with friends who encourage me to do things I know I shouldn’t. I’m not very strong when it comes to saying “No,” but your help makes a difference.
Thank you for my parents. Sometimes we don’t agree, but I know they love me. Help me to be respectful and obedient, even when I don’t feel like it.
This will be a busy year. Please help me keep my relationship with You as my number one priority. Thank you for the many ways that You care for me. I love You. In the name of Jesus, amen.
  The First Baptist Chariot Newsletter, September 2010, issue 8

Helpful Holiday Tips

1.   If no one sees you eat it, it has no calories.
2.   If you drink a diet soda with a candy bar, they cancel each other out.
3.   If you eat standing up, it doesn’t count!
4.   If you eat the food off of someone else’s plate, it doesn’t count.
5.   Cookie pieces contain no calories because the process of breakage causes calorie leakage.
6.   Food used for medicinal purposes has no calories. This includes: any chocolate used for energy, brandy, cheesecake, and Haagen-Daz ice cream.
7.   When eating with someone else, calories don’t count if you both eat the same thing.
8.   Movie-related foods are much lower in calories simply because they are part of the entertainment experience and not part of one’s personal fuel. This includes: milk, [Milk] Duds, popcorn with butter, Junior Mints, Snickers, and Gummi Bears.

The First Baptist Chariot Newsletter, December 2010, issue 11

Monday, August 24, 2015

No Butts About It

When Allena was an infant (and a toddler), diapers and baby wipes constituted a big piece of our income. In 1963, my mother (along with lots of other women of this time) used cloth diapers secured with big safety pins, and plastic underwear over that to prevent messes even though Pampers was being mass produced in 1961.
One way for today’s parents to save on the expense of baby wipes is to make their own; here is a safe easy, economical recipe for that, which helped us when our budget was tight back then (1996).
INGREDIENTS
ü 1 paper towel roll cut in half horizontally (across)
ü 2 c hot water
ü 2 tbsp baby wash
ü 1 tbsp baby oil
DIRECTIONS
Mix liquid ingredients together.
Place half paper towel roll flatly in plastic container (with lid).
Pour liquid mixture over half roll of paper towel.
Put lid on container, and shake vigorously until all fluid is soaked up into paper towels.
These are not flushable must be disposed of.
It may seem at times like there are more duties than can be handled in a day for the maintenance of a child. Enjoy this time with pictures, journaling (blogging), and keeping all of those baby books up to date. (Your adult child will appreciate it one day as they look back on their childhood with you.)
This time of your child’s life will pass quickly. Once it is gone, it can’t physically be retrieved again. Each age of a human being has both its challenges and rewards.
Psalm 127:3 says, “Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from Him.” (NLT)
The Heavenly Father gives you your children on loan to take care of him (or her) into adult maturity until He calls them home one day. Be present in their moments, and experience amazement with all God’s marvelous creation can accomplish with you present.


Sunday, August 23, 2015

When Did My Child Become a Missionary?

QUESTION: What percentage of the preschool and elementary age children are missionaries?
ANSWER: 100% of them.
Our children as missionaries means sending them to school each day is a short-term mission’s trip. That puts a whole new spin on school being a trip around the world. Have you ever thought of all the different student (and staff) nationalities your child comes in contact with every day? (In the Gahanna-Jefferson school district alone, there are forty nationalities represented.)
One day something small in your child eyes may make a positive difference in another child’s life, or bring about a lifetime friend. Just think a child’s simple invitation to church being accepted could result in the salvation of an entire family.

This week look up PrayerZone on the Internet. One thing PrayerZone teaches is that every time you car slows down in a school zone pray for the students (and staff) in that school building. Pray that bullying will be minimized; learning will be optimized, and that the love of Christ will be demonstrated in and around your child. 

Sew the Need

Women that enjoy sewing do it for two very different reasons. Some perform the profession of seamstress as a means to financially support themselve(and a family if applicable). The other group does it as a hobby. They sew just because they can. These ladies sew just for the sheer joy of it.
Women in the community may find Columbus Threads of Love (led by Anita Bates, anita@wowway.com) to be a true blessing from God. Its purpose is to sew at home and abroad in order to minister physically, spiritually, emotionally to those in need.
Above all the various cloth donations Columbus Threads of Love receives, they feel most blessed when a grieving relative gives them fabric (or trim) from a deceased relative.  They in turn bless others with the items they create from the material graciously given by someone else.
Columbus Threads of Love sews for places like churches, public schools, senior care centers, and teen challenge (girls with addiction issues).

For senior citizens, walker bags, fleece blankets, cloth’s protectors (while eating) are made. Children can receive “pillowcase” dresses (for girls), shirt/short sets (for boys), receiving blankets (for babies), and infant burial gowns (when needed). Anita Bates and other women frequently sew at their own homes so the supply of items needed can stay at full capacity. 

Surprise!

Has someone ever done a good thing for you for no apparent reason? It was not a holiday, your birthday, or some special event. In this act of undeserved generosity repayment was not requested. Emotions for something wonderful like this can vary from shock, suspicion, or gratitude. Sometime the human mind has difficulty mentally processing an event that does not make sense no matter how much it’s thought out.
Have you ever noticed how naturally granting “unexpected blessings” comes to children? It can come in the form of a nice word, sharing of a favorite item (like a toy or an electronic gadget), giving of a homemade drawing, or presenting of a flower. To many children, surprise kindness knows no gender, race, age, or temperament. Wouldn’t it be nice if all adults could think that way?

This week pray for God to send you someone that you can grant an “unexpected blessing” to. Be on the lookout because you never know when God may throw a giving opportunity your way. Open your heart to his voice, and prepare to be amazed with what happens next.

Bobbi’s Big Yummies (Recipes)

Mexican Casserole
Ingredients
ü 1 lb ground beef
ü 1 jar salsa, large
ü 1 can red enchilada sauce
ü 2 tsps Ancho chili powder
ü Salt and pepper (to taste)
ü 1 ½ tsps garlic (or garlic salt)
ü 2 tsps cumin
ü 1-2 cans refried beans
ü 2 c shredded cheese
ü 1 pkge of corn tortillas (or corn chips)

Directions
Brown ground beef, and warm refried beans.
Mix spices in.
Put a layer of tortillas and sauce on bottom of dish.
Then layer beans, meat, and cheese.
Repeat last step until baking dish is full.
Bake at 350 degrees (until bubbles).
Should serve 4-6 large pieces.





Spinach Potato Salad
Ingredients
8 potatoes (any kind)
1 small pkg spinach (adjust amounts to your taste)
1 16 oz container small curd low fat cottage cheese
1 onion/onion powder (adjust amounts to your taste)
Mayonnaise (add equal amounts until creamy)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions
Bring potatoes to boil.
Then turn burner off.
Leave in water until fork comes out easy. 
Remove from pan lay out to cool.
As they cool pull off the skin (or you can leave on if you don't mind it). 
Then crumble or cut into small pieces.
Take spinach (adjust amounts to your preferences. I buy chopped and lay out to thaw while potatoes cook.)
You will want to squeeze all the water out of the spinach.(I use paper towels they have to be good ones so they won't tear. By the way frozen works best for this.)
Crumble the spinach into the potatoes. 
Add 16 oz container small curd low fat cottage cheese Then chop onion to your liking. 
Then add equal amount of mayonnaise.
Salt and pepper to taste.
Serves large crowd.

NOTE: If you leave this overnight in the morning you might want to add more of each mayonnaise and cottage cheese depending on the size of potatoes.


Saturday, August 22, 2015

Stuck on You

After many years of marriage, I’ve learned one important fact about my wife. She is not a carbon copy of me. (How boring and awful would that be?) Her creativity, spiritual gifts, intuition, and life point of view are uniquely different from mine as her husband. I smile as Proverbs 31:10 (MSG) reminds me of her, an important asset in my life. It says, “a good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds.”
A goal with the women in your church is to build relationships with other ladies in a multigenerational (different age groups) congregation.
Helping women find their true purpose in life is vital. Though independence is popular these days with ladies worldwide, interdependence with other females is crucial. (You are stronger together than alone.) You can inspire women to be all God wants them to be. Be strengthened by other women that may not be so different from yourself.

Vital to Us

Take just a minute to close your eyes, and think of the females that are (or have been) positively prominent in your life. The list may include a mother, a favorite aunt, a grandmother, a teacher, or even a sister. My list is not exhaustive by any means. Who needs to be added to your own personal list?

Remember, love does not see social standing, ethnicity, or job class. When affection for someone is strong, any differences seem to just fade away. The insignificant stuff really doesn’t seem to be that important any more.

Whether your important lady attends your church, lives a long distance away, or has already gone to be with the Lord, do me a favor right now. Whether it’s in person, by cell phone, text, e-mail, in your mind, or at a tombstone, take the time today to make your gratitude known.

Thankfulness for others makes you a happier and healthier person.  Remember Proverbs 17:22 (MSG) says, “A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired.” 

Friday, August 21, 2015

Shout it to Everyone

There’s nothing better than when you come to the conclusion of a good book to be surprised by the way everything wraps up. It’s time to be a tattletale, and reveal the location of all my work-related stories.
My part-time employment with Meijer on North Hamilton Road in Gahanna, OH, that began on December 2014 upon the suggestion of my wife to our boss (Brandon) will come to a conclusion on Saturday, September 5, 2015, at the end of my work shift (possibly around 1pm). God is still in the business of answering my prayers (and wishes).
 I will be eternally grateful that Meijer took a chance with me after five years of being retired (due to my health). They helped to give me purpose in this new regimen. (I think we have both been good for each other.)
Though the Utility Worker (Bagger) job I began with and the Greeter job I am leaving with at Meijer have both given me lots of practice in flexing my customer service muscles.
I feel my new job as a part-time Copy & Print Associate at the Staples located at Easton Market (right on the outskirts of Gahanna) on Morse Crossing will allow me the ability to use my creative abilities (like my writing) to help customers with their advertising  (and photocopy) needs. I will arrive for my first day of work at 9am on Monday, September 7, 2015. (Staples is a leader in office supplies and equipment.)
Compare my new boss (“Johnson”) being anxious to hire me immediately (on-the-spot) because of all the potential he sees in me as a Staples’ employee to my current boss (Brandon) who finds it difficult to communicate with me on an adult level (we are similar in age) when he gets stressed out over all the required work duties Meijer has asked him to do.
Career-wise, I’ve accomplished as much as I can as a Greeter. I’ve hit the proverbial wall of my means of advancement.  I am already setting dreams of what I hope to accomplish at Staples (in both in my employment career and personally).
I look forward to the increase in salary (from $7.85 to $10 an hour), and am happy about the new associate and customer friends I’ll make (and saddened by those I must leave at Meijer).
It’s been next to impossible to keep my good news quiet from my close co-workers and regular customers from this exciting development. When I should be nervous about moving into a new job I have little expertise in, I feel as sense of assurance (about the rightness of this change) and an excitement about what awaits me. This has been missing from my life for a very long time.
Is there something in your life you should do that will add zest (and spice) back in to it? What kind of sign are you looking for? In cases like this, it is always good to be reminded of some biblical emotional power boosters.
Philippians 4:13 says boldly proclaims, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” (NKJV) Jeremiah 29:11 gives us God’s assurance that “I have it all planned out-plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hoped for.” (MSG)

 Be grateful for the good things (past, present, and future) God has placed in your life (Psalm 9:2, 100:4). You have the power (from above) to do whatever you need to accomplish. God has already answered your prayer for assistance with courage to do what is most needed in your life right now.   There is no limitation on your capabilities.

Thursday, August 20, 2015

A Hairy Situation

Garee from my men’s group (see Masculinity at its Best and Hard to Hear) called the “Holy Rollers” called me recently for my advice in a work situation. Garee was a stylist at Hair Works by Kendra on East Main Street in Bexley, OH.
Garee worked (and was friends) with a transgender male stylist named Ronnie (formerly Rhonda), who thought wearing tight pants to accentuate his family jewels was a great thing to do.  (Things became much clearer when he sweat in this area as the shop had no air condition.)
 Regular customers disagreed with him. They had complained about this vulgarity, and found other establishments to have their beauty needs taken care of at.
Though Ronnie was excellent at his position, the salon had lost money as a result of his visual choice. Garee was good friends with Ronnie. He had been there with him through the thick and thin of his sexual reassignment. The boss had nicely asked him to have a very frank discussion with Ronnie about customer’s complaints about him and his further shaky employment here in the near future.
Kendra’s did not have a formal dress code written down anywhere. The unwritten rule was if customers didn’t like it (affecting the salon’s income), things changed.
Ronnie had a rather tart personality, and Garee did not look forward to talking to him this afternoon. He knew his friend was going ask about the double standard for the skimpy female clothing in the salon. (Garee knew many of the female stylists had been confronted by Kendra.) Ronnie would also point out with no established dress code he could wear whatever he liked.
He would also point out there were other salons in town that adore his talent (and eccentric behavior). He could quit immediately if that would suit Kendra. Why hadn’t she come to talk to him personally if there was a problem?
Have you ever had to confront a friend out of concern (or because someone else had asked you to)? Is there nothing worse than being put in the middle of a very bad situation? It kind of makes you feel violated as a friend. No doubt about it that there are things in life that must be done though there is no enjoyment in the process. Are you a big enough person to step up, and come to terms with the reality of this issue?


Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Shades of Stupid


You’ve probably heard of clichés that begin with he (or she is as) “stupid as a….” The statement could end with such words as rock, mud, brick, a post, or a bag of nails.

Someone who fits this description might be considered terminally stupid, has little common sense (as opposed to book sense), or has as little intelligence as a non-living (or unanimated) object, or has the horrible mental capabilities of a heavy non-human object (as opposed to the agility of a lively mind).

A good portion of our world today assumes age and wisdom are synonymous. I would say most the time that is correct. I believe that true intelligence comes from how difficult situations are handled. With this criteria, any age can apply.

Chances are we have all met senior citizens that are jaded, unteachable, not very nice (unkind), possibly cruel, and regularly say stuff that seems idiotic.

Psalm 92:14 (NLT) says, “Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green.” Adapting to change (at any age) makes one current, emotionally young, and valuable when the golden years come to past. If something is important to someone accommodations will happen to reach the desirable goal.

 

 

Monday, August 17, 2015

Good Times


I’ve always enjoyed creative ways of saying something that others might deem unacceptable. (It must be my fascination for creating unique thought.) My sister Kim is two years my junior. One reason I love her so much is that she has that distinctive sibling humor that only happens when you are family.

My 52nd birthday is on Tuesday, August 18, 2015. (Golden Buckeye Card here I come.) I simply loved my sister’s card (by Carlton Cards). It really made me laugh. The inside greeting said, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY YOU OLD SCHITT.” You can now look at the attached picture, which is the front of the card.

This is probably the raciest post you will ever read on Encourage Me. This card amazed me as I’d never seen all the phrases in one location. Hopefully, you will smile as big as I did.

Both the Bible and I want you to enjoy all the emotional and physical benefits of laughter. (Read below) It’s easy. Just allow the hilarity  inside you to bubble out.

v Proverbs 17:22 (MSG): “A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired.”

v Proverbs 15:13 (MSG): “A cheerful heart brings a smile to your face; a sad heart makes it hard to get through the day.”

 

Friday, August 14, 2015

Hair Loss

The second Sport Clips has opened in my neighborhood at the Shops at Rocky Fork in Gahanna, OH. Since it’s been awhile since my last visit at the nearby Stoneridge location, I went to the Shops recently to get the “Most Valuable Player” (MVP) treatment with my hair, and welcome them into the neighborhood with my business.
My stylist (Iyanna) and I got into some mentally stimulating conversation (I can talk a lot); the haircut was great (for what she had to work with); it was nice to have someone else take a turn at washing my salt and pepper hair; the hot towel on my face was luxurious; and the massage on my neck (and shoulders) was a small piece of Heaven.
Their theme of “It’s good to be a guy” speaks to me. I am so glad I am not a female so that I don’t have to experience a monthly visit from Aunt Flo. I find quickness, convenience, and sanitary conditions (most the time) in the public urinals I use. I do not have to physically give birth to a baby (no second child, not like pain, ouch).
 As a man, I do not have to worry about primping my appearance (like a woman). Accept me as the slob I can be at times, or find another friend. (This is the way I am.) I am usually very literal with my speech. There is no second guessing (or implied hidden meaning) as to what I am saying like many females do.  
I have a unique perspective (as a man) on my world and family. I love the variety of having facial hair (if I choose). I have lots of physical strength to do hard labor that must be done (at times). I want to explore all the many challenges (and triumphs) that make me God’s beloved son.

These are just a few of my reasons. If you are of the male species, I hope you will celebrate all that you are. Even if you are a twin, there is no one identical to you. You are unique with everything you have to offer this world. To someone else you are a difference maker. Believe it.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Hard to Hear

“Garee” returned several weeks ago to our Thursday morning men’s group after a long absence. My friend is a large man with a jovial personality and a heart to help. After the group, Garee asked to talk with me (in my estimation never a positive statement).
Garee wanted to chat with me about my oversharing in this men’s group. In my past, I have been aware that I can have a tendency (with my personality) to monopolize a group with my world of Robert’s opinions and life wisdom (and in Christian groups family prayer requests).
When Garee asked me how I was feeling about our conversation, I honestly replied I was hurt, felt I wanted to run away from him (and the men’s group), and keep silent in this group next Thursday (as I was not leaving this men’s group was as vital to me as air). People think a silent Robert is a sick or depressed person since that is so unlike me.
I am mostly a “black and white” morals type of person with some shades of gray. How could I fully be myself, and think all the time about editing my voice. How mentally exhausting? It was hard to be at home with yourself with constantly editing what you give out verbally. This was definitely a reoccurring issue in my life that became more painful every time someone tried to help me deal with it.
I was used to communicating a great deal in my greeter job and on my platform through this weblog. Reading social cues (like the wandering eye) had never been one of my strong suites. I could quickly alienate myself with what my blunt advice from those I needed the most. (I never mean to do this.) I really wanted, but at this point in my life I was uncertain as to how that goal could be achieved.
Proverbs 27:6 says, “You can trust a friend who corrects you, but kisses from an enemy are nothing but lies.” As a good friend, it couldn’t have been easy for Garee to confront me (in love). Maybe I needed to be reminded of this once again. What about you?

How do you deal with sensitive situations like the above? Can you take the kernels of truth out of a conversation that will benefit you the most? If you are unapproachable, do your best to change that as soon as possible.  If one is not constantly growing with those around you (in every aspect of their life), they become stagnant, jaded pools of themselves, which becomes putrid (and quite stinky).

Everything

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