... at her, then at the pacifier in her hand. The flight attendant finally spoke:" Excuse me, Miss. Is this your first flight ?" Fear of flying has kept many people home. One woman reminds me that her terror of riding in airplanes actually has biblical roots." We should be wary of ... ," she asserts." In the Bible, Jesus says, 'LO .I'll be with you always "! Other common fears have kept countless people from enjoying life fully. Some of the greatest fears we share are a fear of becoming incapacitated, a fear of financial ruin, fear of abandonment and fear of death. Fear ... Fearless Living A woman traveled by plane with her infant daughter. When they landed, they were met in the waiting area by her father, who took the baby while she proceeded to the baggage claim area. Standing there alone waiting to claim her luggage, she was absent-mindedly holding the baby's pacifier. She noticed ...

... me. Ironically, my book, which is about my miscarriage and my journey towards recovery, is doing very well. Rather bittersweet. But, I feared it was the closest I'd ever come to being a mother and like a cancer, it ate away at me to the point where I was very volatile, ... ill family member ), which cause him great angst, won't go away and I find myself feeling rather 'hopeless ' at times. I find myself full of fear more than faith. God has bestowed some wonderful gifts upon me, i.e, my musical talents, a book published and being in several other books. I ... life, He'll help me through these stressful times by showing me how to give my troubles to God, and I'll see things differently. I'll be less fearful-more relaxed. I am what you'd call a walking ball of stress. My faith is very strong, but I can't seem to 'get it right ' ...

... exclaimed the wife," I just get terrified"" Then do what I do ," suggested her husband." Close your eyes !" We are all afraid at times, but closing our eyes may not be the best way through fear. I've found it better to open my eyes and try to experience those fears. You've heard of facing your fears; how about embracing them? I think one man's experience with fear can help. In 1972 David Miln Smith had such ... opportunity. Smith, an adventurer, author and professional speaker, decided to spend a night alone in the famous St. Michael's Cave on the island of Gibraltar as a test of courage. In his book HUG THAT MONSTER (Andrews and McMeel, 1996 ), he tells of hearing strange sounds all around him as he lay there in the pitch-black, damp, deserted cave. Most frightening was the fact that he came to believe he was not alone! Fear became panic and ...

... exclaimed the wife," I just get terrified"" Then do what I do ," suggested her husband." Close your eyes !" We are all afraid at times, but closing our eyes is not always a helpful way through fear. Better to open your eyes and face those fears head-on. In 1972 David Miln Smith had such an opportunity. Smith, an adventurer, author and professional speaker, decided to spend a night alone in St. Michael's Cave on the ... of Gibraltar as a test of courage. In his book HUG THE MONSTER (Kansas City: Andrews and McMeel, 1996 ), he tells of hearing strange sounds all around him as he lay there in the pitch-black, damp, deserted cave. Most frightening was the fact that he came to believe he was not alone! Fear became panic and he was afraid he was losing his mind. Then suddenly, as he was approaching his psychological breaking point, Smith thought to himself ...

... the next day. One young woman named Judy was the first to raise her hand. She explained to me later why she did so:" When you asked for three volunteers ," Judy said," I felt a knot of fear in my stomach. I've never done anything like this before and I've never really believed I could. But the fear was telling me something ," she continued." So .BECAUSE I felt so anxious, I decided that this was something I ... following day, Judy's five-minute talk was superb! She was honest and genuine, speaking right from her heart. Now she is more confident about her ability to speak in public. People who are confident have choices. People who are fearful too often avoid much of life because they are afraid to venture into unknown territory. Jim Loehr said," With confidence, you can reach truly amazing heights; without confidence, even the simplest accomplishments are beyond your grasp" When you ...

... never was. Even in a loving relationship, people need their own space. If we want to learn to love, we must first learn to forgive and let go of past hurts and grievances. Love means letting go of our fears, prejudices, egos and conditions." Today I let go of all my fears, the past has no power over me-today is the beginning of a new life" The sixth secret? the power of COMMUNICATION. When we ... relationships. Touch changes our physical and emotional states and makes us more receptive to love. The tenth secret? the power of TRUST. Trust is essential in all loving relationships. Without it, one person becomes suspicious, anxious and fearful and the other person feels trapped and emotionally suffocated. You cannot love someone completely unless you trust them completely. Act as if your relationship with the person you love will never end. One of the ways you can tell whether a person ...

... Like Phillips once said," There's only two kinds of coaches-them that's been fired and them that's about to be fired" Sounds like they might want to make friends with rejection. Few things hold people back more than the fear of rejection. They don't ask for what they need because the answer may be no. They don't ask their boss for a raise or for more time off. They don't ask for help. They are afraid to be the first to ... down or turned out. But the wonderful truth is this: If you can accept NO for an answer, you can ask for anything. ANYTHING. When no is an acceptable and okay answer to what you'd like, you can fearlessly ask for whatever you need. I love the expression," I'm just putting it out there" Just put it out there. Ask. And don't worry about the response. Nobody can say YES if you never asked. Just put ...

... yourself to the scriptures, and the scriptures to yourself. The Bible is not meant merely to inform, but to transform. Grace is everything, for nothing, to those who don't deserve anything. Courage is not the absence of fear, but the mastery of fear. If you keep in step with God, you'll be out of step with the world. Salvation is so simple we can overlook it, so profound we can never comprehend it. To avoid lying, ... is doing what you are afraid of, there can be no courage without fear. Success is a journey not a destination. The greatest pleasure in life is doing the impossible. The greatest 'mistake ' you can make is to continually fearing that you will make one. You can't force flower petals to open, but they will open up beautifully when the time is right. How is it that we don't recognize when love begins, but we always recognize when it ends. ...

... invasion. I laid down my Kirby sword and picked up the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. I reviewed every peace and power promise I'd ever read. I'm not sure how long I'd been reading when fear started to drain out and quietness began to seep in, and I nodded off. Soon I was sound asleep. I never heard my husband when he pulled up in front. I didn't hear him when he came in the door. ... their furnace broke, Les went to help them. I felt a little pang of discomfort at being left alone. Well, to say I was alone isn't quite accurate-both our young boys were upstairs asleep. Also, our fearless cockapoo, Tuesday, was snoozing outside. Tuesday was a lovable dog, but she had no discernment. She greeted beggar and thief, as well as doctor and chief, with sloppy enthusiasm. She also had what I thought was a ...

... The 11th-20th Commandments 11th. Thou shalt not worry, for worry is the most unproductive of all human activities. 12th. Thou shalt not be fearful, for most of the things we fear never come to pass. 13th. Thou shalt not cross bridges before you come to them, for no one has yet succeeded in accomplishing this. 14th. Thou shalt handle only one problem at a time, and leave the others to the Lord until their turn comes up. ... The 11th-20th Commandments 11th. Thou shalt not worry, for worry is the most unproductive of all human activities. 12th. Thou shalt not be fearful, for most of the things we fear never come to pass. 13th. Thou shalt not cross bridges before you come to them, for no one has yet succeeded in accomplishing this. 14th. Thou shalt handle only one problem at a time, and leave the others to the Lord until their turn comes up. ...

... I Love You Anyway The fear of rejection may be one of the most basic fears of the human experience. Dr. Joe Harding tells a heart-warming story of a man who finally decided to ask his boss for a raise in salary. It was Friday. He told his wife that morning what he was about to do, All day the man felt nervous and apprehensive. Late in the afternoon he summoned the courage to approach his employer. To his delight, the ... agreed to a raise. The man arrived home to a beautiful table set with their best china. Candles were lighted. His wife had prepared a festive meal. Immediately he figured that someone from the office had tipped her off! Finding his wife in the kitchen, he told her the good news. They embraced and kissed, then sat down to a wonderful meal. Next to his plate the man found a beautiful lettered note. It read:" Congratulations, darling ...

... my heart transplant and the topic led to a discussion about fears. One girl said she was afraid of the dark. I told her I was afraid of the dark, too. We all have dark areas in life that we fear-illness, job loss, financial worries, doubts about our abilities, the state of our economy or the world's environment. But if we keep a positive attitude, we discover the light that God has put in our hearts to overcome ... action. I told them they can stay with friends who tell them they can't or choose friends who tell them they can. I was speaking to another class of sixth-graders about my heart transplant and the topic led to a discussion about fears. One girl said she was afraid of the dark. I told her I was afraid of the dark, too. We all have dark areas in life that we fear-illness, job loss, financial worries, doubts about our ...

... rabbit was finishing breakfast in the tall grass near the woods. In the sky birds were soaring into the morning sunrise while hidden in the trees their feathered friends were singing songs of love to Heaven. It was so glorious and so awe-inspiring. My heart felt full to overflowing with God ’ s love and my soul seemed to expand in joy knowing that I too was a part of His wonderful creation. I learned recently that in the original Greek Bible the word" Fear" also translates as" Awe". This made sense to me, because while I have never really felt afraid of God I feel in awe of His glorious, powerful, and unconditional love for us every single day. I feel in awe of this wondrous world He created. I feel in awe of this life He gave me here. I feel in awe that I am here to be His Child, to share His Love, and to do His Will. ...

... shouts of joy. Your enemies will be clothed in shame, and the tents of the wicked will be no more" (Job 8: 20-22, NIV) Here is Zophar:" Yet if you devote your heart to him and stretch out your hands to him, if you put away the sin that is in your hand and allow no evil to dwell in your tent, then you will lift up your face without shame; you will stand firm and without fear. You will surely forget your trouble, recalling it only as waters gone by. Life will be brighter than noonday, and darkness will become like morning. You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety. You will lie down, with no one to make you afraid, and many will court your favor. (Job 11: 13-19, NIV) Essentially they are saying to Job," Seek God ...

... the midst of them I felt lonely. All of this would change, however, thanks to a single pair of loving eyes. It happened one day when I was shopping in a mall. The crowds to my dismay were as thick as I had ever seen them. In this sea of people I noticed a little girl holding her Mom ’ s hand coming out of a store. As I looked down at her I could see in her face all of the fear and loneliness that I had in crowds only worse. In that noisy crush of strangers I saw her looking from face to face for comfort. It was then that her eyes met mine. In that moment we both smiled and I felt our souls touch. The fear and loneliness left her eyes and I saw love and joy replace them. Her angelic smile warmed my own heart as well and in that second I could feel a blanket of God ’ s love around us ...

... very good supervisors! Now come on, SOMEBODY, let's rake leaves! .the leaves of the HEART, that is! You see, far beyond that yard calling for our attention is a back yard that nobody sees -a yard surrounding the home where the King resides -and it's a mess! A yard full of yesterday's leaves never raked -long-held resentments, unforgiveness and pain; strong-holds of the past -sin, sorrow and safely-concealed strife. Not very attractive -but have no fear -the snow will soon cover up the unraked remains -no one will see, no one will ever know you never raked the leaves. Not true! YOU know it, feel it, and subconsciously project it to those around you, believe it or not! Well, stop it! Get up and go out and rake the leaves! The Holy Spirit is a good supervisor and He will help you do the job! Bag them -and bring them to the Cross -every hurt ...

... side with Mr. Spock. We see the work of our hands that appears to produce the result. Yet we see suffering, poverty, abuse, and other maladies that appear to be heaped upon the innocent with no rhyme or reason. As a young scientist in college, I admired Mr. Spock's ability to analyze things with a detached and computerized view. Spock had all of his emotions under control. Spock could eliminate pain by mental control. Spock could eliminate fear and doubt by shear mind power. I thought that I could be like Spock. I found out that I couldn't. Our emotions rage. We feel pain that we can't stop and fear that we can't banish. When our world would appear to be subject to being scattered over space and the danger alarms are going off that things have gone terribly wrong, work feverishly at the controls. Do everything that wisdom and proper training instructs you to do and do it with all ...

... Dad Ruined My Life The most single solitary man that made an influence on my life was my Dad. He was really an old fashioned man with principals, beliefs, religion, and rules he refused to compromise. He not only lived by the same but saw to it that I did. He put the fear in me that made me just like him. I was never allowed to curse others when I got mad and convinced them they were nothing but trash and scum when they didn't agree with me or do things my way. I don't know what it is like to get drunk or high. I wasn't allowed the thrill of a high-speed chase from the law. Dad taught prayer was the ultimate in shaking the heavens and changing tragedy into triumph. Boldness, assertiveness, and courage to speak, live, and act upon the truth was the gateway to temporal as well as eternal freedom. I was taught to forgive and pray for ...

... name of the Lord shall be saved" Read and meditate on these scriptures: Psalm 103: 8-13" The Lord is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. He will not always strive with us, Nor will He keep His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor punished us according to our iniquities. For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father pities his children, So the Lord pities those who fear Him" 2 Peter 3: 9" The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance" John 6: 37 Jesus says," All that the Father ...

... Twenty Cans of Success Why should I say I can't when the Bible says I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Philippians 4: 13 )? Why should I lack when I know that God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4: 19 )? Why should I fear when the Bible says God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1: 7 )? Why should I lack faith to fulfill my calling knowing that God as allotted to me a measure of faith (Romans 12: 3 )? Why should I be weak when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God (Psalm 27: 1; Daniel 11: 32 )? Why should I allow Satan supremacy over my life when He that is in me is greater ...

... all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you" (1 Peter 5: 7) D epressed? Take Vitamin D." Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you" (James 4: 8) E mpty? Take Vitamin E." Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name" (Psalm 100: 4) F earful? Take Vitamin F." Fear not, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God" (Isaiah 41: 10) G reedy? Take Vitamin G." Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put unto your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back" (Luke 6: 38) H esitant? Take Vitamin H." ...

... learn that giving and forgiving are more rewarding than taking and avenging. When they learn that suffering is not eased by self-pity, but overcome by inner resolve and spiritual strength. When they learn that they can't control the world around them, that they are the masters of their own soul. When they learn that relationships will prosper if they value friendship over ego, compromise over pride, and listening over advising. When they learn not to hate a person whose difference they fear, but to fear that kind of hate. When they learn that there is pleasure in the power of lifting others up, not in the pseudo power of pushing them down. When they learn that praise from others is flattering but meaningless if it not matched by self-respect. When they learn that the value of a life is best measured not by the years spent accumulating possessions, but by the moments spent giving of one's self-sharing wisdom, inspiring hope, wiping tears, and ...

... on the other side of which came a sound of scratching and whining, and as he opened the door a dog sprang into the room and leaped on him with an eager show of gladness. Turning to the patient, the doctor said," Did you notice that dog? He had never been in this room before. He did not know what was inside. He knew nothing except that his master was here, and when the door opened he sprang in without fear. I know little of what is on the other side of death, but I do know one thing: I know my Master is there, and that is enough. And when the door opens, I shall pass through with no fear, but with gladness. [Author Unknown-from 'E-Mail Ministry ' (emailministry @emailministry.org)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... . Emerging from the encampment of the Philistines is Goliath. He is nearly 15 feet tall, broad as a dump truck at the shoulders. His shield and sword is to heavy for men to handle, so they are drawn on a flat cart by a team of snorting horses. Goliath surveys the army of Israel and growls angrily." Send me a man who is your champion. Come, let us fight and I shall kill you like a mangy dog !" Fear sank deeper into the hearts & bodies of the Israeli soldiers. A huge shadow cast itself across the valley floor, it appeared ominous and foreboding. High on a ridge cresting the valley stood Goliath, Lord of Chaos and Destruction. He towered like a skyscraper against the sunlit sky, his frame blocking the powerful illuminating rays. No one stepped forward to accept the giant's dare. Seasoned, hardened men of war cowered and wished for the bosoms of their wives and children. ...

... to risk not being loved in return. To live is to risk dying. To hope is to risk disappointment. To try is to risk failure. But risks must be taken, because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing. Those who risk nothing, do nothing, have nothing, and become nothing. They may avoid present suffering and sorrow, but they will not learn, feel, change, grow, love, or live. Chained by their fear, they are slaves who have forfeited their freedom. Only a person who risks is free. The pessimist complains about the wind; The optimist expects it to change; And the realist adjusts the sails. Is fear preventing you from taking a necessary risk today?~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... do many things for you, and I happily obeyed. Today, you have told me to forgive. I am sad, Lord, because I cannot. I don't know how. It is not fair Lord. I didn't deserve these wrongs that were done against me and I shouldn't have to forgive. As perfect as your way is Lord, this one thing I cannot do, for I don't know how to forgive. My anger is so deep Lord, I fear I may not hear you, but I pray that you teach me to do this one thing I cannot do---Teach me To Forgive" As he knelt there in the quiet shade of that old oak tree, he felt something fall onto his shoulder. He opened his eyes. Out of the corner of one eye, he saw something red on his shirt. He could not turn to see what it was because where the oak tree had been was a ...

... Strong Woman vs. a Woman of Strength A strong woman works out every day to keep her body in shape. but a woman of strength kneels in prayer to keep her soul in shape. A strong woman isn't afraid of anything. but a woman of strength shows courage in the midst of her fear. A strong woman won't let anyone get the best of her. but a woman of strength gives the best of her to everyone. A strong woman walks sure footedly. but a woman of strength knows God will catch her if she falls. A strong woman wears the look of confidence on her face. but a woman of strength wears grace. A strong woman has faith that she is strong enough for the journey. but a woman of strength has faith that it is in the journey that she will become strong. Addendum-Philippians 4: 3 (NKJ)" And I urge you also, true companion, help these ...

... ," I knew that the need was great. And besides, though you may not remember it, I was one of two college students whom you generously helped when I was in need" The story illustrates a law of successful living: sooner or later we will reap what we sow. Paderewski reaped a harvest of kindness he had sown years before. Those who sow love will eventually reap love. Those who sow goodness will reap even more. Those who sow fear and mistrust will reap an unwanted harvest later. It's a basic law of successful living. And powerful enough to change a life.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2008 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... that their First Amendment was going to be so used, I have little doubt that we all now would be members of the Church of England. But what concerns me isn't the 800-pound gorilla of" separation of church and state" sitting on the backs of the churched of this country, daring them to exercise their rights in sight or earshot of a government official. Rather, what has me riled up is the dichotomy between one's belief in an omnipotent God and his fear of our secular laws. If you indeed want the laws of this country to change, you must follow the example of the early Christians and become martyrs to our faith. Now, I am not advocating putting yourselves in danger of crucifixion or burning at the stake. Another portion of the same Constitution prohibiting little Johnny from praying at graduation forbids the use of cruel and unusual punishment. So get organized. Pray at football games. Face down the persecutors. Fill the detention ...

... change in a dish someplace. you are among the top 8 %of the world's wealthy. If you woke up this morning with more health than illness.. you are more blessed than the million who will not survive this week. If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation you are ahead of 500 million people in the world. If you can attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest, torture, or death .you are more blessed than three billion people in the world. If your parents are still alive and still married. you are very rare,. If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful. you are blessed because the majority can, but most do not. If you can hold someone's hand, hug them or even touch them on the shoulder. you are blessed because you can ...

... awe in feeling chosen for this blessed state. With it goes a thrill of anticipation in being together. Most important, a fresh sense of purpose sweetens life because the two have found each other and have, as the expression goes," fallen in love" This is not overstating the case. As a physician, I have seen that the emotions of romantic love give people a new outlook on life and a sense of well-being. Romantic love is good medicine for fears and anxieties and a low self-image. Psychologists point out that real romantic love has an organizing and constructive effect on personalities. It brings out the best in us, giving us the will to improve ourselves and to reach for a greater maturity and responsibility. This love enables us to begin to function at our highest level. Quite honestly, if you are not in love with your marriage partner in this way, you are missing something wonderful, no matter how sincere your commitment ...

... Reach Up" Ye, though I walk through the valley of shadow of death, I will fear no evil" The journey each of us walks is not always a meadow full of flowers. Sometimes it is a journey up a mountain, loose rocks and steep inclines. We so often loose sight of the beautiful scenery because of our attempts to hold on. We have to struggle with many things in this world that makes us feel alone. Arthritis grips us tight and wrenches pain from within. Diabetes cuts our feelings ulcerates our skin. Cancer files away at the cells of our body and leaves us weak. Blindness takes away our vision and paints our world black. Mental disabilities hold our thoughts and leave us in a lonely room. Cruelty of others cuts our hearts and leaves us empty. We were born to celebrate, to reach up and believe. We were born to rejoice, to lift our hands to life. We were ...

... to be rescued. A few minutes later another man cutting through the cemetery fell victim to the same grave. He, too, tried desperately to climb and claw his way out, and he was equally unsuccessful. As he was about to give up in hopeless resignation, he heard a voice from the darkness of his pit:" You'll never get out of here" He did !!! He just needed the proper motivation! And in this case, a shot of fear did the trick! But when it comes to finding the motivation to do most worthwhile things, his example is the exception. I am learning that the best motivation, whether I want to accomplish a task, go back to school, start something new or kick a habit, usually comes from the inside. To be successful, I must WANT to do it. Others may certainly help in their encouragement or in" pumping me up ," but, in the end, ...

... are scared, they jump into the nest again. Next, she throws them out and then takes off the soft layers of the nest, leaving the thorns bare. When the scared eaglets again jump into the nest, they are pricked by thorns. Shrieking and bleeding they jump out again this time wondering why the mother and father who love them so much are torturing them. Next, mother eagle pushes them off the cliff into the air. As they shriek in fear, father eagle flies out and catches them up on his back before they fall and brings them back to the cliff. This goes on for sometime until they start flapping their wings. They get excited at this newfound knowledge that they can fly. The preparation of the nest teaches us to prepare for changes; The preparation for the family teaches us that active participation of both partners leads to success; The being pricked by the thorns tells us that sometimes being too comfortable where ...

... Getting Ready For Tomorrow You heard about the sign posted on a rancher's fence? On the other side of the fence resides the biggest, meanest looking bull you can imagine. The sign is intended to strike fear into the hearts of would-be trespassers. It reads:" Don't attempt to cross this field unless you can do it in 9.9 seconds. The bull can do it in 10 flat !" Don't try to cross that field unless you are prepared! And isn't that the way it is in life? We have to be ready when the opportunity arises or else we will have little chance of success. Sixth-grade schoolteacher Ms. Shelton believed in readiness. Students remember how she walked in on the first day of class and began writing words of an eighth-grade caliber on the chalkboard. They quickly protested that the words were not on their level and they couldn't learn them. Their teacher insisted that the students could and would learn these words. She ...

... SAY: 'It's not worth it ' GOD SAYS: It will be worth it BIBLE VERSES: Roman 8: 28 YOU SAY: 'I can't forgive myself ' GOD SAYS: I Forgive you BIBLE VERSES: I John 1: 9 & Romans 8: 1 YOU SAY: 'I can't manage ' GOD SAYS: I will supply all your needs BIBLE VERSES: Philippians 4: 19 YOU SAY: 'I'm afraid ' GOD SAYS: I have not given you a spirit of fear BIBLE VERSES: II Timothy 1: 7 YOU SAY: 'I'm always worried and frustrated ' GOD SAYS: Cast all your cares on ME BIBLE VERSES: I Peter 5: 7 YOU SAY: 'I'm not smart enough ' GOD SAYS: I give you wisdom BIBLE VERSES: I Corinthians 1: 30 YOU SAY: 'I feel all alone ' GOD SAYS: I will never leave you or forsake you BIBLE VERSES: Hebrews 13: 5 [Author Unknown-from 'E-Mail Ministry ...

... others. We can be honest with God in the presence of others while being connected to the great line of faithful witnesses who have said these words before. In addition, we get to say many of these Psalms from a first person perspective, driving home the point that these are not just community truths, they are personal realities as well." The Lord is MY shepherd. he leads ME. even though I walk through the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. .your rod and your staff comfort ME"" Your hand will guide ME, your right hand will hold Me fast. you created MY inmost being; you knit Me together in MY mother's womb. Search ME, O God, and know MY heart" These incredibly honest and personal words from Psalms 23 and 139 are just a small taste of what the Psalms offer us. This God-approved songbook allows us to personally worship. The Psalms remind us that God ...

... the old swimming hole behind his house. In a hurry to dive into the cool water, he ran out the back door, leaving behind shoes, socks, and shirt as he went. He flew into the water, not realizing that as he swam toward the middle of the lake, an alligator was swimming toward the shore. His mother, in the house was looking out the window, saw the two as they got closer and closer together. In utter fear, she ran toward the water, yelling to her son as loudly as she could. Hearing her voice, the little boy became alarmed and made a U-turn to swim to his mother. It was too late. Just as he reached her, the alligator reached him. >From the dock, the mother grabbed her little boy by the arms just as the alligator snatched his legs. That began an incredible tug-of-war between the two. The alligator was much stronger than the ...

... hate and prejudice. We see acts of violence and meanness everywhere we go. Instead of spitting them out and refusing to let them dwell in our hearts, souls, and minds, however, we hold them inside of us, digest them, and allow them to become a part of us. In the end we even become more like these things ourselves. We are what we eat, after all. Don ’ t allow yourself to keep eating and digesting the fear, anger, and hate that this world so often tries to feed you. Spit it out. Refuse to take another bite. And then like a happy Child of God return laughter, love, and joy for it instead. God loves you and prepares you a meal of kindness, goodness, laughter, smiles, love, joy, and oneness with Him everyday. Why eat something nasty when you can delight in this feast and share it with the whole world instead ...

... a time to confess our sins. I'd been to confession before, but it never really meant more to me than a closed up room and some prayers when I was done. My heart didn't feel connected to God's. This time, it did. When I felt ready, I went to Father Barry and sat in front of him. He just smiled. There were no walls, no curtains, no church. For the first time, I felt naked and fearful in front of God. I now understood that He was part of me and knew of my lies, my shortcomings, my selfishness-yet he loved me anyway. How could he love me? After all the things I'd done? Hurting my parents, my sister. Telling my mother that I was embarrassed because my clothes were bought from a consignment shop. Oh God, how could I have hurt her that way? Not thinking there were enough presents under the tree ...

... God that I felt within me and all around me while I walked over this sparkling field of white. I was thinking too that if God can keep our hearts warm in the middle of a cold Winter ’ s day then God can keep our hearts warm in the middle of a sometimes cold world. Yes, this world is often full of heart freezing hate, bone chilling apathy, and bitterly cold meanness. Sometimes we worry about even going out in it for fear that it will turn our own souls to ice. God ’ s love, however, is always there waiting to keep us warm and waiting to help us warm the world around us as well. God loves us so much. He gives us so much peace, love, joy, beauty, and delight to warm our hearts, souls, and minds. He gives us so many opportunities to choose and share this glorious warmth everyday of our lives. He gives us ...

... moan and proceeded to throw up. After stripping off his dripping, vomit soaked sheets and helping him back into bed I decided that it would probably be best if I didn ’ t drink alcohol anymore. I still carry the wisdom of that lesson with me even now. I know that whatever we drink into our hearts and minds will sooner or later come back out of us. If we are always drinking down shots of anger, frustration, jealousy, envy, fear, and hate then sooner or later that is what is going to come spewing out of us as well. If we watch what we drink, however, and gulp down glasses of love, peace, prayer, kindness, goodness, and closeness with God everyday then that is what will pour out of our souls and bless all those around us. May all of your drinks then be divine ones that bring you only joy and wonderful oneness with God. Cheers.~ ...

... in as a boy had a river running along one side of it and a set of railroad tracks running along the other. Being just 10 feet away from the tracks sometimes scared my Mom. Our home consisted of two, old, shanty cars painted green and several rooms we built on ourselves. She knew that it would be crushed if any one of those 20 feet tall, railroad cars loaded with coal were to tip over on it. I never shared her fear, however, no matter how much those cars would sway as the trains went by. In my child ’ s mind the trains and tracks where a source of endless adventure and home was a place of love, joy, and safety that I could always return to. In fact, I would often spend part of my summer mornings walking down the railroad tracks and back home again. It was a challenge to see how long I could walk on one of the narrow ...

... Two Days We Should Not Worry There are two days in every week about which we should not worry, two days which should be kept free from fear and apprehension. One of these days is Yesterday with all its mistakes and cares, its faults and blunders, its aches and pains. Yesterday has passed forever beyond our control. All the money in the world cannot bring back Yesterday. We cannot undo a single act we performed; we cannot erase a single word we said. Yesterday is gone forever. The other day we should not worry about is Tomorrow with all its possible adversities, its burdens, its large promise and its poor performance; Tomorrow is also beyond our immediate control. Tomorrow's sun will rise, either in splendor or behind a mask of clouds, but it will rise. Until it does, we have no stake in Tomorrow, for it is yet to be born. This leaves only one day, Today. ...

... out to me." One day the angels came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. The LORD said to Satan," Where have you come from ?" Satan answered the LORD," From roaming through the earth and going back and forth in it" Then the LORD said to Satan," Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil"-Job 1: 6-8 Tempting Job and giving him problems was probably the furthest thing from Satan's mind. Until God chimed in. He nominated Job for the job of temptee. Why? Why would God nominate Job for the job of losing all his oxen, donkeys, sheep, and camels? Why would God nominate Job for a job in which he would receive painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head? ...

... selfish love: these kinds of love are not true love." Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, nos not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil" I Corinthians 13: 4 5 (NKJV) Have Faith. This is all-important." Strong, serene, unquenchable faith in the loving kindness of God will enable us to look fearlessly towards the end of the temporal existence and the beginning of the eternal, and will make it possible for us to live our lives effectively, grandly" Summing it all up: Let go of everything you cannot carry into eternal life.-Helen Dowd-[ by Helen Dowd Copyright 2004, (helendowd @shaw.ca)-submitted by: Helen Dowd] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... will never" have it all together" Life is a journey .not a destination. Enjoy the trip! The biggest lie on the planet:" When I get what I want I will be happy" The best way to escape your problem is to solve it. I've learned that ultimately, 'takers ' lose and 'givers ' win. Life's precious moments don't have value, unless they are shared. If you don't start, it's certain you won't arrive. We often fear the thing we want the most. Everyone hears what you say. Friends listen to what you have to say. Best friends listen to what you don't say! Yesterday was the deadline for all complaints. Look for opportunities .not guarantees. Life is what's coming .not what was. Success is getting up one more time. Now is the most interesting time of all. When things go wrong don't go with them. Sometimes the majority only means that all the fools are on ...

... You Are Blessed If you own a Bible, you are abundantly blessed-about 1 / 3 of the world does not have access to one. If you wake up each morning with more health than illness, you are blessed to rise and shine, to live and to serve in a new day. If you have anyone on the planet, just one person that loves you and listens to you; count this a blessing. If you can freely attend a church meeting without fear, then you are more blessed than over 1 / 3 of the world. If you have a yearning in your heart to parent a child, you are blessed because you still desire what you cannot see. If you pray today or any day, you are blessed because you believe in God's willingness to hear your prayer. If you pray for someone else, you are blessed because you want to help others also. If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on ...

... You Are You are strong.... when you take your grief and teach it to smile. You are brave.... when you overcome your fear and help others to do the same. You are happy.... when you see a flower and give it your blessing. You are loving.... when your own pain does not blind you to the pain of others. You are wise.... when you know the limits of your wisdom. You are true.... when you admit there are times you fool yourself. You are alive.... when tomorrow's hope means more to you than yesterday's mistake. You are growing.... when you know what you are but not what you will become. You are free.... when you are in control of yourself and do not wish to control others. You are honorable.... ...

... Your Cross Whatever your cross, whatever your pain, There will always be sunshine after the rain. Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall, But God's always ready to answer your call. He knows every heartache, sees every tear, A word from His lips can calm every fear. Your sorrows may linger throughout the night, But suddenly vanish at dawn's early light. The Savior is waiting somewhere above To give you His grace and send you His love. Whatever your cross, whatever your pain, God always sends rainbows after the rain.-Andrew Chase-[ Andrew Chase-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... at what we do-music, teaching, research, carpentry, sales, etc,-but we can all become great individuals. It's about being great at who we are, great as human beings. Author James Michener learned about the importance of greatness on a stormy night in the South Pacific. His plane was trying desperately to land on the Tontouta airstrip but could not do so. After several attempts in the dark of night, his knuckles were white with fear. When they finally landed safely, Michener went out and walked the length of the airstrip, looking at the dim outlines of the mountains they had so narrowly missed. He wrote this:" And as I stood there in the darkness I caught a glimpse of the remaining years of my life and I swore an oath when peace came, if I survived, I would live the rest of my years 'as if I were a great man ' I did not presume to ...

... do many things for you, and I happily obeyed. Today, you have told me to forgive. I am sad, Lord, because I cannot. I don't know how. It is not fair Lord. I didn't deserve these wrongs that were done against me and I shouldn't have to forgive. As perfect as your way is Lord, this one thing I cannot do, for I don't know how to forgive. My anger is so deep Lord, I fear I may not hear you, but I pray that you teach me to do this one thing I cannot do.Teach me To Forgive. As he knelt there in the quiet shade of that old oak tree, he felt something fall onto his shoulder. He opened his eyes. Out of the corner of one eye, he saw something red on his shirt. He could not turn to see what it was because where the oak tree had been was a large square piece of ...

... to have a friend is to be one. If nobody calls you, pick up the phone and call someone. Are you concerned about our country's future? Hooray! Our system has been saved by such concern. Our country may not be a rose garden, but neither is it a patch of weeds. Freedom rings! Look and listen. You can worship at the church of your choice, cast a secret ballot, and you can even criticize your government without fearing a knock on the head or a knock on the door at midnight. And if you want to live under a different system, you are free to go. There are no walls or fences-nothing to keep you here. A final thought: Want an instant high? The surest cure for the holiday blues is doing something nice for someone. Why not call a person who lives alone and invite him or her to share dinner? Better yet, call and say ...

... precious gems. As I opened my jewelry box, I was surprised by the sight and the smell of two beer caps. Duane informed me that instead of beer caps they were really two precious silver earrings. He had noticed that I never wore earrings and wanted me to have some pretty ones. As my eyes began to tear, I was touched by his creativity and the thoughtfulness of Duane's precious gift. Since birth, one of my ears was slightly deformed. Fearing that wearing earrings might draw attention to the ear, I never wore them. But how could I not wear these precious earrings given by this special child? As I placed the earrings on my ears with masking tape, my class clapped, and Duane stood proudly beside me. Every year after that, the matchbox remained on my desk. It reminded me of Duane's act of kindness and of the lessons he taught me. Although his situation at home was not the best ...

... , only one of his 3 bags had actual groceries. Another was full of books and the third carried a new plant for his home. He reminded me again that appearances can be deceiving and that the brightest souls often come in disguise. I felt sorry for all the other drivers who passed by this fine man. They missed out on a great talk full of wisdom and joy. They missed out on meeting a shining soul still sharing his light. They chose fear and lost. May you always choose love instead. May you help your neighbor whenever you can. And may you treat everyone you meet as God in disguise.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2009 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... of the stations coming out of the darkness, and then drift back off into sleep. The next morning we eagerly awaited the announcement: Next stop, Colorado Springs. But suddenly, there came an another announcement over the loud speaker." During one of the overnight stops, many pieces of luggage were mistakenly removed from the train and left at the wrong location" Kathy and I just looked at each other, as I felt the disappointment swell. Could my worst fear be coming true, was Debbie's suitcase lost? There we sat, now slumped in our seats, when two men neatly dressed, in what seemed to be train conductor uniforms, casually walked down the aisle, and passed our seats. They were both enjoying a hardy laugh and it wasn't hard to overhear their conversation. The tone of their laughter drew our interest. Just graduating from nursing school, Kathy and I had learned to make an assessment of every situation and we ...

... ; and many shall rejoice at his birth" Luke 1: 14 S is for Savior. To be this He came; The angel of God assigned Him His name." She shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS, for he shall save his people from their sins" Matthew 1: 21 T is for Tidings related to all, Telling of Him who was born in a stall." And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people" Luke 2: 10 U is for Us, to whom Jesus was given To show us the way and take us to heaven." For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord" Luke 2: 11 V is for Virgin, foretold by the sage, God's revelation on prophecy's page. ...

... . An understanding attitude starts from not knowing, gathers meaning from what is heard, and moves toward validating what is being communicated. Through understanding we are able to see the world through another person's eyes. An understanding attitude says," Before I judge you, I will take off my shoes and walk in yours for a while" Respect A respectful attitude acknowledges another person's rights, wishes, and needs. It yields to another's wishes and needs, not out of fear, but through acknowledging their validity. Respect acknowledges the value and importance of who a person is, as well as their needs. Respect is the attitude that motivates one to truly serve another because he or she deserves it. Appreciation An appreciative attitude acknowledges the value of another's efforts or behavior. It recognizes that the expression of another person's being or behavior has enriched the well-being of the appreciator. Appreciation is the natural reaction to being supported. Appreciation inspires us to give back ...

... " Let's put it this way-they're numbers"" But Doc ," he argued," this is the way I see it !" Much of our happiness or unhappiness is a result of our perception." This is the way I see it ," we say, at least to ourselves. A problem can be a challenge that energizes me to action or an obstacle that stops further progress." This is the way I see it" A new situation can be fearful or fun." This is the way I see it" A busy day can be cause for gladness that life is full and useful, or it can be a reason for me to complain." This is the way I see it" An unexpected intrusion can be a source of irritation that my agenda was interrupted, or it can quite possibly be the most important thing I encounter that day." This is the way I see it" An error can be ...

... Three Steps To Success Here are three simple steps to make things happen in your life: DO IT. Dr. Norman Vincent Peale put it like this:" Action is a great restorer and builder of confidence. Inaction is not only the result, but the cause, of fear. Perhaps the action you take will be successful; perhaps different action or adjustments will have to follow. But any action is better than no action at all" If you wait until you have all the facts or until you know how you will handle every possible challenge that comes along, you'll never get started. Begin somewhere. You can't accomplish anything until you begin. Do it. DO IT RIGHT. One poet put it like this:" If a task is once begun, never leave until it's done. Be the labor great or small, do it well or not at all" It's true: if you don't have time to do it ...

... her balm denies, My silent spirit sighs, May Jesus Christ be praised! When evil thoughts molest, with this I shield my breast, May Jesus Christ be praised! Does sadness fill my mind? A solace here I find, May Jesus Christ be praised! Or fades my earthly bliss? My comfort still is this, May Jesus Christ be praised! In Heaven's eternal bliss the loveliest strain is this, May Jesus Christ be praised! The powers of darkness fear when this sweet sound chant they hear May Jesus Christ be praised! To God, the Word, on high, the hosts of angels cry, May Jesus Christ be praised! Let mortals, too, upraise their voice in hymns of praise; May Jesus Christ be praised! Rev. E. Caswell (1800) When I read these words it warmed my heart and the void dissipated into thin air. Reading this hymn bought hope to my soul; even the saints ...

... Thoughts About God If you feel far away from God, guess who moved? Fear knocked. Faith answered. No one was there. What you are is God's Gift to you. What you become is your gift to God. I am God's Melody of Life and He Sings His Song through me. We can never really go where God is not, and where He Is, all is well. No matter what is happening in your life, know that God Is Waiting for you with open Arms. God Promises a safe landing, not a calm passage. Do your best and then sleep in peace. God Is Awake. God Has a Purpose and Plan for me that no one else can fulfill. The Will of God will never take you to where The Grace of God will not protect you. We are responsible for the effort, not the outcome. We set the sail; God Makes the wind. Begin to weave ...

... The Work Of Our Souls I always avoid the automated checkout in the grocery store. I rarely if ever use an ATM either. It isn ’ t that I fear them or can ’ t work them. It is just that there is something missing from them. The automated checkout has never once given me a warm smile when I pulled my grocery cart up to it. The ATM hasn ’ t once shared a kind hello or asked me how I was doing today either. The automated checkout has never given me a compliment or lightened my heart with a gentle joke like the cashiers I know have. The ATM hasn ’ t once offered my kids a lollipop like the bank tellers I know often do. No automated checkout has ever thanked me for something I wrote, given me a friendly hug, or even looked me in the eye. No ATM has ever wished me well or told me to have a great day. Neither ...

... be more selective in my diet. I like the woman who stepped off the scale and was asked by her husband what the verdict was." According to the height table ," she replied," I should be about six inches taller" But more important than the food we put into our bodies are thoughts we put into our minds. Thoughts of bitterness like," I hate her !" Thoughts of despair like," I'll never be happy again" Thoughts of fear like," I could never do that !" And thoughts of worry, thoughts of greed and thoughts of self-loathing. A constant diet of these killer thoughts will destroy us long before cholesterol. The Navajo people have an expression for this. They traditionally believe that how they fill their minds will shape their lives. So they want to fill their minds only with that which is good, harmonious and edifying. They speak of" thinking in the Beauty Way"-ridding their ...

... WONDER what happened to the real meaning of Christmas. Store sales, Christmas lights, etc. In many ways we have marred the true meaning of Christmas. We all know the story of Christmas. On that night long ago, while the shepherds guarded the temple flocks at a place called Migdal-Eder, a ray of hope burst forth on a people and a world trapped in darkness. We're told an angel spoke words which have become somewhat famous the world over." Fear not ," he said," I bring you glad tidings of great joy !" The shepherds turned their attention heavenward, for they understood what these tidings might be. The angel continued." Unto you is born this day in the City of David, a savior, who is Christ (the chosen and anointed one) the Lord" Then the angel was joined by an entire company of heavenly beings, rejoicing and singing" glory to God in the highest" The shepherds ...

... cold. My promises are never broken (contrary to what he might lead you to believe). My character never changes. And you, my child have been made in My image. I love you dearly, unconditionally and completely. I understand every emotion that you have. I've been there. I count every tear that you cry. I know every hair on your head. And do you know what? I even know your weaknesses and your failures and your fears. I know those hidden parts of you that you wish would go away. Those dark corners of your world that you stuff deep down, praying that no one will ever see. I have already seen them and they will not change my love for you. Nothing will. I love you, heart and soul. I just wanted to remind you today of how beautiful you are, and how precious you are to Me. With Unmeasurable Love, Your Heavenly Father [ ...

... woke her up. It seemed a strange coincidence then that during the middle of one night she would suddenly awake the moment that frayed wiring in her room caught fire. Her screams awoke my brother who then rushed through the house waking up the rest of the family. The house was made of old, dry timbers and the fire raced through it in a matter of minutes. Smoke filled every room. None of us could see anything. We were all filled with fear and confusion. Still, thanks to my Grandma waking up at just that moment we all made it out safely. My Mom even found our small dog cowering at her feet and picked him up just as we ran out the front door. Doris Lessing once said that" Coincidences are God ’ s way of remaining anonymous" I fully believe that to be true. Without the coincidence of my Grandma waking up at just the right second that fire would have cost us our ...

... let down when promises are broken. Don't forget that I cannot explain myself as well as I would like. That is why I am not always very accurate. Don't tax my honesty too much. I am easily frightened into telling lies. Don't be inconsistent. That completely confuses me and makes me lose faith in you. Don't put me off when I ask questions. If you do you will find I will stop asking and seek information elsewhere. Don't tell my fears are silly. They are terribly real, and you can do much to reassure me if you try to understand. And please. Don't neglect me; I do not want to be a delinquent. [Author Unknown-'E-Mail Ministry '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Childern Learn What They Live If children live with CRITICISM, they learn to CONDEMN. If children live with HOSTILITY, they learn to FIGHT. If children live with FEAR, they learn to be APPREHENSIVE. If children live with PITY, they learn to FEEL SORRY FOR THEMSELVES. If children live with RIDICULE, they learn to be SHY. If children live with JEALOUSY, they learn what ENVY is. If children live with SHAME, they learn to feel GUILTY. If children live with TOLERANCE, they learn to be PATIENT. If children live with ENCOURAGEMENT, they learn to be CONFIDENT. If children live with PRAISE, they learn to APPRECIATE. If children live with APPROVAL, they learn to BE THEMSELVES. If children live with ACCEPTANCE, they learn to FIND LOVE in the world. If children live with RECOGNITION, they learn to HAVE A GOAL. If children live with SHARING, they learn to be GENEROUS. If children live ...

... you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are the child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep ...

... Yes"" This time, what if I were to hold your child over the edge of the building and tell you that if you do not walk across the beam I will drop your child. Would you walk across ?" Surprisingly, the father hesitated for a beat, then smiled and asked," Which child do you have ?" The trainer, of course, was right in assuming that a parent's devotion to a child is usually greater than almost any amount of fear associated with saving that child. Most parents love their children fiercely and would do anything possible to help them. An eastern newspaper reported that a train in Bangladesh accidentally struck a calf elephant. The mother elephant apparently became upset over the incident, for a little while later another train came along and spotted the female standing in the middle of the track. Though the engineer blasted his horn, she would not budge. When the train came to a halt, she began butting ...

... Fathers and Children A-Always trust them to God's care B-Bring them to church C-Challenge them to high goals D-Delight in their achievements E-Exalt the lord in their presence F-Frown on evil G-Give them love H-Hear their problems I-Ignore not their childish fears J-Joyfully accept their apologies K-Keep their confidence L-Live a good example before them M-Make them your friends N-Never ignore their endless questions O-Open your home to their visits P-Pray for them by name Q-Quicken your interest in their spirituality R-Remember their needs S-Show them the way of salvation T-Teach them to work U-Understand they are still young V-Verify your statements W-Wean them from bad company X-eXpect them to obey Y-Yearn for god's best for them Z-Zealously guide them in biblical truth [Author Unknown- ...

... second food is terrible for you. It is hard on your heart and destroys your health. It depresses your mind and steals your body ’ s vitality. It makes you feel miserable both inside and out. It also tastes terrible. You can eat it right away, though. It is instant and takes no effort to make. Which one would you choose? Sadly, more people than you would think make the second choice. The second choice is acting from fear. It is choosing to feed the soul hatred, violence, negativeness, misery, pain, meanness, and loneliness. It is easy to do even though it hurts you every time you do it. It slowly poisons your life and the lives of those around you if they let it. The first choice, however, is choosing love. It is feeding the soul joy, peace, positiveness, happiness, delight, goodness, and oneness with God. It takes ...

... to let some air out of your balloon. Give the air to God. So, I acknowledge and embrace these parts of myself right now. I allow myself to feel hurt and cry. I turn to God for help and guidance and I ask for more strength. Here are some examples: My heart is ripped apart over the fact that my fiance's Dad has just been diagnosed with cancer. I HATE being in the hospital seeing him suffer. I DETEST the fear that I feel and see and smell. I want to fall apart when I see the pain in my fiance's eyes. I am NOT okay with this. It hurts, and it hurts a lot. I cannot always be the pillar of strength I have expected myself to be. I lose it sometimes and I am finally saying to myself that it's okay to do that. I ask God to help me. I need His strength so that I can be strong. ...

... ," she told her husband and she carried the coin-laden bucket to the elevator. As she was about to walk into the elevator she noticed two men already aboard. Both were black. One of them was big. Very big. An intimidating figure. The woman froze. Her first thought was: These two are going to rob me. Her next thought was: Don't be a bigot, they look like perfectly nice gentlemen, But racial stereotypes are powerful, and fear immobilized her. She stood and stared at the two men. She felt anxious, flustered, ashamed. She hoped they didn't read her mind but knew they surely did; her hesitation about joining them on the elevator was all too obvious. Her face burned. She couldn't just stand there, so with a mighty effort of will she picked up one foot and stepped forward and followed with the other foot and was on the elevator. Avoiding eye contact, she turned around ...

... am dishonest or seeking things by subterfuge. I cannot say FORGIVE US OUR TRESPASSES if I harbor a grudge against anyone. I cannot say LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION if I deliberately place myself in its path. I cannot say DELIVER US FROM EVIL if I do not put on the whole armor of God. I cannot say THINE IS THE KINGDOM if I do not give the King the loyalty due him from a faithful subject. I cannot say THE POWER if I fear what others may do. I cannot say THE GLORY if I am seeking honor only for myself. I cannot say FOREVER if the horizon of my life is bounded by the things of today. [Author Unknown-submitted by DAF, via 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... WAS DYING IN SIN ONE MAN WAS DYING FOR SIN ONE MAN WAS DYING IN REBELLION ONE MAN WAS DYING IN REPENTANCE ONE MAN WAS DYING IN REDEMPTION ONE MAN LOST HIS LIFE ONE MAN FOUND HIS LIFE ONE MAN GAVE HIS LIFE Addendum-Luke 23: 39-43 (NIV)" 39) One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: 'Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us! ' 40) But the other criminal rebuked him. 'Don't you fear God, ' he said, 'since you are under the same sentence? 41) We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong ' 42) Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom ' 43) Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise" [Anonymous (T. F)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved ...

... I remembered five comforting words:" And it came to pass" Not coincidently, the phrase is found throughout the Bible. It's an intriguing phrase" and it came to pass" I've never read," And it came to stay" It's always," And it came to pass" Whenever I have encountered problems over the years, they came to pass. My anxieties and worries always proved to be temporary. In fact, I have forgotten most of the fears that once kept me awake at night. I've learned that most tough times and impossible situations eventually come to pass. And sufficient strength can be found for those few that may linger a while. Besides, what could I do? The bus would either make it or not. Like New York Yankees outfielder Mickey Rivers once said," Ain't no sense in worrying about things you got control over, 'cause if you got control over them, ain't no sense worrying. And ...

... are B elieves in" you" C alls you just to! say" HI" D oesn't give up on you E nvisions the whole of you (even the unfinished parts) F orgives your mistakes G ives unconditionally H elps you I nvites you over J ust" be" with you K eeps you close at heart L oves you for who you are M akes a difference in your life N ever Judges O ffers support P icks you up Q uiets your fears R aises your spirits S ays nice things about you T ells you the truth when you need to hear it U nderstands you V alues you W alks beside you X -plains things you don't understand Y ells when you won't listen and Z aps you back to reality [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Inspiretoday @topica.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... , I realized it was a bookmark and when I turned it over, in small print this is what was on the other side: The Lord is my shepherd: I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me: Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. That was a pivotal point for me. It broke my mood, and for some odd reason, or perhaps some ...

... " have it all together" Life is a journey. not a destination. Enjoy the trip! The biggest lie on the planet:" When I get what I want, I will be happy" The best way to escape your problem is to solve it. I've learned that ultimately, 'takers ' lose and 'givers ' win. Life's precious moments don't have value, unless they are shared. If you don't start, it's certain you won't arrive. We often fear the thing we want the most. He or she who laughs. lasts. Yesterday was the deadline for all complaints. Look for opportunities. not guarantees. Life is what's coming. not what was. Success is getting up one more time. Now is the most interesting time of all. When things go wrong. don't go with the flow. [Author Unknown-from Aiken Drum] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... they look like they were painted by Heaven ’ s hand. Bit by bit the leaves on the trees transform into glorious golds, radiant reds, and outrageous oranges. Beautiful burgundies and browns soon appear too, as well as yellows that shine like the sun itself. This time of the year always gives me a hint of what Paradise itself must be like. It really amazes me then that the phrase" the Autumn of our lives" is always said with such fear. The very mention of it stirs up images of aging, illness, and approaching death. I guess so many are afraid of that last leaf falling that they fail to see the beautiful Spring that awaits them. I think the Autumn of your life should instead be embraced with joy. It should be the peak of a beautiful, colorful, and well-lived life. It should be full of choosing love, sharing happiness, and helping others. It should be filled with ...

... he went in to see her. He recognized her at once. He went back to the consultation room determined to do his best to save her life. From that day he gave special attention to the case. After a long struggle, the battle was won. Dr. Kelly requested the business office to pass the final bill to him for approval. He looked at it, then wrote something on the edge and the bill was sent to her room. She feared to open it, for she was sure it would take the rest of her life to pay for it all. Finally she looked, and something caught her attention on the side of the bill. She read these words: PAID IN FULL WITH ONE GLASS OF MILK. (Signed) Dr. Howard Kelly Tears of joy flooded her eyes as her happy heart prayed: Thank You, God, that Your love is shed abroad through human hearts and hands. Addendum: ...

... , you are abundantly blessed. 1 / 3 of the world does not have access to even one. If you woke up this morning with more health than illness, you are more blessed than the million who will not survive the week. If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture or the pangs of starvation, you are ahead of 500 million people around the world. If you attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest or torture of death, you are more blessed than almost three billion people in the world. If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof over your head and a place to sleep, you are richer than 75 %of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish someplace, you are among the top 8 %of the worlds wealthy. If your ...

... from it! Grab time with God however you can! Once we seek to become closer to God, we can do nothing else but desire the see the evil in the world and in our own lives overcome by God's righteousness. Whether that is a disobedient 2 year old, or a teenager facing unthinkable peer pressure-we must desire in our hearts for the evil that tempts them to be vanquished by God's will. We want our children to be free from the fear of abduction, abuse, guns in schools, drugs and an entire laundry list of other evils. As SAHMs we must seek God, and pray as intercessors for our children, their teachers, friends and the world. What is our reward for seeking God? The Bible states we will be filled. We know, of course, that this does not mean we will never have trials, or evil will not touch our lives. But, we must take comfort in ...

... get, the more tired and breathless you become. But your view becomes much more extensive" Atop the mountain, one has a better view of the world. One can see above the differences that divide people. One can better see beyond petty hurts and human fragility. Atop the mountain, one has a longer view of the past and can therefore understand the future with more clarity. Atop the mountain, one looks down on dark clouds of gloom and despair and fear and notices that they are neither as large nor as ominous as those beneath them would believe. It is also clearer that however dark they may appear, they too, are fleeting and will someday pass. George Bernard Shaw said," Some are younger at seventy than most at seventeen" I think it is because they have a broader outlook. It will take a lifetime to climb the mountain, but, for me, the view will be worth the journey.~ ...

... truth the other day: she takes a lot more naps than I do. I know a few people, however, who go beyond being just a morning or an evening person. These people may get tired and need naps just like the rest of us, but even when their energy is low their love is still high. They are Heavenly persons. They care, they laugh, and they smile even through the worst pains and challenges. They face life without fear. They share love with no thought of reward. And they meet death with a faith and peace that passes all understanding. They give all their days here to bring Heaven closer to Earth. They spend their whole lives showing the rest of us how to live in love and oneness with God. The good news is that whether you are a morning person, an afternoon person, or an evening person you can be a Heavenly person too. You can choose love. ...

... , rock concerts, diseases and mutual needs and concerns. Get with the program! If you really want to help me celebrate the birthday of My Son Jesus, then commit yourselves to figuring out how to feed your hungry and clothe your naked, and protect your abused and shelter your poor. And just as important, make your own everyday life a shining example of kindness and good humor. I've given you all the resources you need, if only you abandon your fear of each other and begin living, and loving and laughing together. Now, I am not really ticked off. Not really. I just wanted to grab your attention because I hate to see you suffer. But I gave you free will, so what can I do now other than try to influence you through reason, persuasion, and a little old-fashioned guilt and manipulation? After all, you know I am the original Jewish Mother. I just want you to be ...

... office ’ s paperwork and comfort her sick grandchild at the same time. I offered to help and gently rocked the infant back to sleep. With all of my children teenagers now it had been a while since I had held someone quite so small in my arms. As I looked at his sweet, innocent face I couldn ’ t help but to think of what life held in store for him. I knew that it would be a mixture of both joy and fear, laughter and tears, growth and struggle, learning and difficulty, and love and pain. I said a silent prayer that he would learn quickly to choose the good things and not to dwell on the bad. I also prayed that he would always feel loved in this life. I knew that if he felt loved then he would also choose love and share love with so many others as well. I then said this prayer for the rest of us too. We ...

... only a little. Theodore Roosevelt read a book by New York newspaperman Jacob Riis titled HOW THE OTHER HALF LIVES. We often think of the" other half" as living in luxury. The other half are those who are powdered and pampered. The rich and famous. Movers and shakers. But the book did not describe the wealthiest few of society. Instead it described the slums of the city, with all its vice and crime. Families living in poverty and fear-too afraid to leave their homes after dark. The other half, said Riis, were the poor among us. Theodore Roosevelt was moved to action. He went at once to the newspaper office where the author worked, but Riis was not in. Roosevelt left his card and wrote on it," Have read your book and have come to help" He did not say," Have read your book and have come to discuss" Or," Have read ...

... , for such is how God has treated me. I choose goodness. I will go without a dollar before I take a dishonest one. I will be overlooked before I will boast. I will confess before I will accuse. I choose goodness. I choose faithfulness. Today I will keep my promises. My debtors will not regret their trust. My associates will not question my word. My loved ones will not question my love. And my children will never fear that their parent will not come home. I choose gentleness. Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice, may it be only in praise. If I clench my fist, may it be only in prayer. If I make a demand, may it be only of myself. I choose self-control. I am a spiritual being. After this body is dead, my spirit will soar. I refuse to let what will ...

... drops everything and gives us His undivided attention: the attention from the most important person in our lives. Who could ask anything more of a mother, or from The Father ?!" Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a woman who reveres the Lord will be praised" Proverbs_31: 30... most of us are lured away from the important things. We get distracted by the shiny things, the deceptive and fleeting things. But when a woman fears the Lord and puts His will first in her life and the life of her family, she is to be praised. Why? Well, because He said so. But if you look carefully at verse 30, you know why-she has invested her life in what really matters. The real superstar women in our world are not the shooting stars who twinkle for a while in People Magazine or a Barbara Walters Special. No, the true superstar women are known by ...

... Independence Day Observations As the last Independence Day of the 20th Century rapidly approaches, I think it is appropriate to delve into our nation's history to scrutinize our often-scorned religious heritage. It is a heritage, I fear, that is being increasingly imperiled by the civil libertarians and leftists who wish to purge our Christian ancestry from contemporary culture. We need look no further than first President George Washington to understand the significance of godly acknowledgment by our forefathers. In September 1779, the House of Representatives, after passing a resolution calling for a day of national prayer and thanksgiving, received Mr. Washington's response:" It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for His benefits and humbly to implore His protection and favor. That great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that ever will be, that we may then ...

... Jesus Is Always With You I was blessed with my 1st son, David, 6 years ago; he is a wonderful boy. He listens to me and obeys me, whatever I teach him he never forgets, and he holds onto it like a treasure. So I felt impressed in my heart that I needed to speak with him more about the Lord, so that he can always have the fear of the Lord and the love of the Lord in him. When he was about three he use to be very scared of lightning, so I told him not to be afraid and that Jesus is in his heart, and that whenever he was afraid all he had to do was touch his heart with his hand and say" Jesus I love you and thank you for being with me" Ever since then, whenever David was scared I saw him touch his heart with his hand and then smile. Last month I was going through ...

... Eventually, a cowboy name Jim White explored deeper. He returned with fantastic stories of gigantic subterranean chambers, spectacular cave formations and unbelievably stupendous sights. Even in 1915, after black and white photographs were taken of the caverns, many did not believe. The government sent skeptic Robert Holley to investigate in 1923. He wrote in his final report," I am wholly conscious of the feebleness of my efforts to convey in words the deep conflicting emotions, the feeling of fear and awe, and the desire for an inspired understanding of the Divine Creator's work which presents to the human eye such a complex aggregate of natural wonders" A whole new world-majestic, wondrous and awe-inspiring-lay hidden from view. Its unimagined beauty can only be experienced by exploring beneath the surface. And so it is with people. I have found in people a unique inner beauty that can be discovered by exploring beneath the surface. They may not believe it is ...

... that mercies are" new every morning ," because of his great faithfulness. HERE ARE A FEW TO GET YOU STARTED: Psalm 23: 1-4-The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Isaiah 57: 15-For this is what the high and lofty One says-he who lives forever, whose name is holy:" I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit ...

... cheek a tear, I shall not have lived my life in vain while here. If I can guide some erring one to truth, inspire within his heart a sense of duty; if I can plant within my soul of rosy youth a sense of right, a love of truth and beauty; if I can teach one man that God and heaven are near, I shall not then have lived in vain while here. If from my mind I banish doubt and fear, and keep my life attuned to love and kindness; if I can scatter light and hope and cheer, and help remove the curse of mental blindness; if I can make more joy, more hope, less pain, I shall not have lived and loved in vain. If by life's roadside I can plant a tree, beneath whose shade some wearied head may rest, though I may never share its beauty, I shall yet be truly blest -though no one knows ...

... To soar, empowered by Holy Spirit. We begin to become the people of God that we are called to be. Other people see us soaring and the sight turns their mind towards God. Each of us is called to work in different ministries. Each of us is at a different point in our faith walk. Perhaps you haven't yet broken out of the egg or left the nest. Perhaps you are standing on the edge of the branch squawking in excitement and fear preparing to jump. Maybe you have just soared and it surprised you. Perhaps you are like the mother magpie, knowing you can soar and that it is your duty to encourage others. Where ever you are in your walk, know that we are called to soar and are empowered to soar, all for the glory of God." but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not ...

... was electric with excitement. Electric for everyone except two boys, apparently brothers, who stood next to a far wall, away from the other children. The older boy held the hand of the younger, much smaller boy, whose body and face were disfigured. The look in the young boy's eyes was that of yearning. How he wanted to be with Cinderella. How he wanted to be a part of other children. But he held back, probably out of fear. He had likely been hurt too many times before by children who didn't understand. But unexpectedly, Cinderella turned and saw the boys. And she must have noticed the longing in the little one's face, for she slowly made her way through the throng, inching toward the far wall. Then something magical happened. Cinderella did the most remarkable thing-something I'm sure she never learned in Cinderella Training Class. She bent down and kissed the little boy's face. He smiled ...

... Forgiven. Forever!" For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us" Psalms 103: 11-12 I was staring at the computer screen when I heard my favorite little voice say," Mommy ?" I turned to look at my sweet daughter and she said," I sorry I lock you out of the bathroom last night" She was referring to an incident a few days earlier in which she had gotten angry with me and locked me out of the bedroom. After the appropriate discipline and discussion, we had hugged and made up. So, why was she asking for forgiveness again? I looked at her and told her," Honey, it is okay. You know not to lock Mommy out of the room now. You don't have to keep saying you ...

... would you do differently ?" Though there were many answers, three responses dominated. Here they are: First, many respondents answered," I would reflect more" Do you ever feel that too much time is spent in" doing" and not enough spent thinking about what you are doing and why you are doing it? Second, they said," I would risk more" Do you think that important opportunities either have been or might be forfeited because of your fear to take a necessary risk? Finally, they said," I would do more things that would live on after I died" Do you feel that you are immersed in something bigger and more enduring than your own existence? Reflect more. Risk more. Leave a legacy. These are what our elders say they would do the second time around. But why wait for a second time around? Every new day is a second chance! important. Risk more today- ...

... :" It's not worth it" God says: It will be worth it (Roman 8: 28) You say:" I can't forgive myself" God says: I FORGIVE YOU (I John 1: 9 and Romans 8: 1) You say:" I can't manage" God says: I will supply all your needs (Philippians 4: 19) You say:" I'm afraid" God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear (II Timothy 1: 7) You say:" I'm always worried and frustrated" God says: Cast all your cares on ME (I Peter 5: 7) You say:" I don't have enough faith" God says: I've given everyone a measure of faith (Romans 12: 3) You say:" I'm not smart enough" God says: I give you wisdom (I Corinthians 1: 30) You say:" I feel all alone ...

... The best thing about them too is that they never run out. The more you give them away, the more God pours them into your heart, soul, and mind. Don ’ t let your life go to waste. Give it away. Give it joyously in service to others. Give it lovingly in service to God. Give your money, your time, your talents, your help, your skills, your energy, and your love. Give without fear knowing that God will always give you back even more. Make yourself rich in the treasures of Heaven and bring a little Heaven to Earth as well.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... a giant of a man. He stood well over six and a half feet tall. He must have weighed over three hundred pounds as well. He looked like a lineman for a professional football team dressed in a brown, wool robe. As we talked, though, his kind spirit and delightful sense of humor put us all at ease. That is until he rose to leave. Then he walked right at me to give me a hug. At first I feared he might crack a rib, but when he took me in his huge arms all I felt was the love from his soul. It was the gentlest hug I ever got. Leo Rosten said:" It is the weak who are cruel. Gentleness can only be expected from the strong" I learned that lesson first hand in the arms of one of the strongest but gentlest spirits I have ever met in this world. He showed me with one hug that God is ...

... hold a team together and win football games" Weak leaders know it all. They already have the answers. Good leaders keep learning. A cross-discipline study of leadership indicated that effective leaders in all fields are always learning. They constantly improve their skills. The best leaders are perpetual learners. Unlike weak leaders, they know that a spurt here and a spurt there does not make one an expert! Weak leaders never rock the boat. They won't make courageous decisions for fear of failing. They prefer to keep things as they are, even if the system is not working all that well. Weak leaders will almost always follow the well-worn path. Good leaders, however, will often go where there is no path and leave a trail. They are sure of their direction and they act boldly. Weak leaders keep others in their place. They remind them who is boss. Good leaders know that authority is more earned than granted. A young ...

... me you live and move and have your being. Acts 17: 28 For you are my offspring. Acts 17: 28 I knew you even before you were conceived. Jeremiah 1: 4-5 I chose you when I planned creation. Ephesians 1: 11-12 You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. Psalm 139: 15-16 I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. Acts 17: 26 You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139: 14 I knit you together in your mother's womb. Psalm 139: 13 And brought you forth on the day you were born. Psalm 71: 6 I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me. John 8: 41-44 I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. 1 John 4: 16 And it is my desire to lavish my love on you simply because you are my child and I ...

... do one productive thing, you will turn twenty years old. If I am eighty-seven years old and stay in bed for a year and never do anything I will turn eighty-eight. Anybody can grow older. That doesn't take any talent or ability. The idea is to grow up by always finding the opportunity in change. Have no regrets. The elderly usually don't have regrets for what we did, but rather for things we did not do. The only people who fear death are those with regrets" She concluded her speech by courageously singing" The Rose" She challenged each of us to study the lyrics and live them out in our daily lives. At the year's end Rose finished the college degree she had begun all those years ago. One week after graduation Rose died peacefully in her sleep. Over two thousand college students attended her funeral in tribute to the wonderful woman that it's never too late to be all you can possibly be. ...

... Maybe I am finally gardening my soul the way that God wants me to. One thing I do know, however, is that the more you fill your heart, soul, and mind with love and thankfulness the less room there is for anything else. The more you love God, yourself, and others the less room there is for anger and hate. The more you thank God for your life and every good thing in it the less room there is for fear and worry. The more good fruits you plant and care for the less room there is for sour grapes in the garden of your life. May you always fill your heart, soul, and mind with wonderful love and glorious gratitude then. May you always feel God ’ s perfect love hugging your heart and uplifting your soul. May you always be so full of the good fruits of love, joy, and thankfulness that not a single sour grape can be squeezed out ...

... step or two before falling on his butt. Then he would look scared, frown, and crawl over to the safety of his favorite wall to pull himself back up. For a while there it looked like he would never walk without both palms planted firmly on it. Then one day we decided to give him a hand, literally. We began to take turns bending down and offering him a finger to hold onto while he walked. When we did this his fear disappeared and his smile returned. He seemed happy to walk along forever hand in hand with us. I spent a lot of time over the next few weeks walking like this with him. Thankfully, he finally did learn to let go and walk on his own before my back gave out. In my own walk through life I sometimes find myself falling on my butt too. I know that Heaven ’ s angels are cheering me on and urging me to get up and ...

... behind the wheel. He noticed a Citizen's Band aerial whipping to and fro as the car jerked between lanes, so he called on the radio:" You in the brown Chevy, if you can hear me, pull over. Pull off the road !" Amazingly, he did! The trucker pulled up behind the car and climbed from his cab. The elderly man staggered from his auto and fell into the trucker's arms. He poured out a story of months of fear and pain that accompanied the illness of his only daughter. Now he was returning from the hospital where it was decided that she would cease any further treatment. In the hospital he remained" strong" and stoic for his daughter, but out on the road he fell apart. The two men talked for the good part of an hour. The father eventually decided to share his pain with his daughter and said he felt good enough to drive home. The men embraced and ...

... #092: Don't remind your grown son you changed his diapers. Mom's Tip #093: If they grow up to be doctors, take the credit. Mom's Tip #094: If they grow up to be lawyers, don't take the blame. Mom's Tip #095: If they become pro-athletes, take the house and car. Mom's Tip #096: If they become politicians they were switched at birth. Mom's Tip #097: Don't teach the kids your fear of bugs. Mom's Tip #098: Take them to a petting zoo. Mom's Tip #099: Don't use a pediatrician who isn't a parent. Mom's Tip #100: You can never have too many Kleenex. Mom's Tip #101: Reserve the New Year's Eve babysitter on January 2. Mom's Tip #102: You can blame just about anything on teething. Mom's Tip #103: Some of the great minds of our time were bed wetters. Mom's Tip ...

... . They're never too big to hug. They're never too smart to receive some good advice. They're never too rich to take home your leftovers. Don't remind your grown son you changed his diapers. If they grow up to be doctors, take the credit. If they grow up to be lawyers, don't take the blame. If they become pro-athletes, take the house & car. If they become politicians they were switched at birth. Don't teach the kids your fear of bugs. Take them to a petting zoo. Don't use a pediatrician who isn't a parent. You can never have too many Kleenex. Reserve the New Year's Eve babysitter on January. You can blame just about anything on teething. Some of the great minds of our time were bed wetters. Let someone else break the news about Santa Claus. Not everyone can win the Pillsbury Bake-Off. Iodine really DOES sting. Mother's Day comes but once a year -milk it. ...