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... . Those who walk with God won't run from people's needs. Sorrow looks back, worry looks around, but faith looks up. We're richer when we give, and poorer when we keep. Because of the cross of Christ, we can become friends of Christ. Amid the darkness of sin, the light of ... those who believe in winning. Strive to be physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. The path of duty is the path of glory. Giving advise is sometimes only showing our wisdom at the expense of others. Silence is sometimes the severest criticism. A caring parent will be conscientious and strict. Reprove ... even!-Ann Landers There is no fear of judgment for the man who judges himself according to the Word of God!-Howard Hendricks The Lord gives us friends to push us to our potential. And enemies to push us beyond it!-Jim Vorsas A laugh is worth a hundred groans in any market ...

... can never get back. Do what you can, for who you can, with what you have, and where you are. The best gifts to give: To your friend, loyalty; To your enemy, forgiveness; To your boss, service; To a child, a good example; To your parents ... they do break hearts. To get out of a difficulty, one usually must go through it. We take for granted the things that we should be giving thanks for. Love is the only thing that can be divided, without being diminished. Happiness is enhanced by others but does not depend upon others. You ... leave the choice with Him. All people smile in the same language. A hug is a great gift, one size fits all. It can be given for any occasion and it's easy to exchange. Everyone needs to be loved, especially when they do not deserve it. The real measure of a man's wealth ...

... can never get back. Do what you can, for who you can, with what you have, and where you are. The best gifts to give: To your friend, loyalty; To your enemy, forgiveness; To your boss, service; To a child, a good example; To your parents ... they do break hearts. To get out of a difficulty, one usually must go through it. We take for granted the things that we should be giving thanks for. Love is the only thing that can be divided, without being diminished. Happiness is enhanced by others but does not depend upon others. You ... leave the choice with Him. All people smile in the same language. A hug is a great gift, one size fits all. It can be given for any occasion and it's easy to exchange. Everyone needs to be loved, especially when they do not deserve it. The real measure of a man's wealth ...

... you have, presents you get, or years you age aren ’ t important. All that counts is how much love you choose, share, and give in this world, because love itself is the greatest gift there is. God in His loving wisdom has given each of us the two best gifts we can ... . Let ’ s use them instead. Let ’ s fill each of our birthdays and all the days in between with loving others, helping others, giving to others, teaching others, and sharing joy with others. Let ’ s truly enjoy these gifts God gives us from our first breath until our last sigh ... much love you choose, share, and give in this world, because love itself is the greatest gift there is. God in His loving wisdom has given each of us the two best gifts we can ever get: a life to live and the love to live it with. Let ’ s not waste them ...

... Godly Giving" But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you"-Matthew 6: 3-4 How many people do ... Godly Giving" But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you"-Matthew 6: 3-4 How many people do ... some sort of reward system or trophy for a job well done. No, my friends, God is above such juvenile behavior, and when the Lord gives, He gives because it is good and right to do so. The next time you are moved to reach out and give to someone, whether it be ...

... What You Give Is What You Get" What you give is what you get" I am sure that everyone of us have heard those words uttered again and again in our lives. They remain age old words of wisdom that go back thousands of years. They go along with" reaping what we sow" ... person with everyone everywhere. If you can do this then what you will get back will be so glorious and wonderful that you will never want to stop giving. It is true that what you give is what you get. But if what you give is love, joy, peace, happiness, goodness, delight ... be afraid to give then. Give your time, your energy, your talents, your love, and your joy. Share all the fantastic blessings God gives to you with those around you. Become as Leo Buscaglia said" the most beautiful, sensitive, wondrous, magical, unique, fantastic person in the world ...

... to forgive our sins again? In Matthew 7: 9-12, Jesus tells us," Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how ... His word assures us of that. In Luke 11: 9-10 Jesus tells us," So, I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who ask receives; he who seeks finds; ... , with all our failings and sinful nature, love our children and give them good things. God, who is perfect and holy, loves us and gives us the same things. I know that I love my daughter more than life itself. I also know that this love is only the very tiniest tip of ...

... 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 ... 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 ... puzzled? Take Vitamin P." Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid" (John 14: 27) Q uitting? Take Vitamin Q. ...

... she supported a full-time missionary. Ultimately his curiosity gained the upper hand, and he asked how could she-a woman with meagre means-manage to give so much money to the Mission? Mutely he indicated the mediocre furnishings of the apartment, and his eloquent silence suggested that the task was beyond her capabilities. ... ?" Her lovely old face became grave; only her eyes smiled as she told of the faithfulness of God. She explained how she had always believed in giving one-tenth of her income to God. Regularly she had set aside His portion, and this had accumulated. Then God blessed her even more, for someone had ... America, and I am quite sure her reward will far outshine mine. She knew how to give cheerfully. And the Lord, Who loves a cheerful giver, blessed her" Addendum-To serve is to love; to love is to give! When you love, you give; when you give, you ...

... I read the old story of the cow and the pig, where the pig complains to the cow about how unpopular he is:" Sure, you give milk and cream, but I give even more, I give bacon and ham and bristles; people even pickle my feet! But they're always talking about your ... a pig. Epilog: The above article caused me to stop and think-am I a cow or a pig? What and to whom am I giving? Often our time and energies are given to worldly and material things. We mean to spend time with our kids, we mean to call our mothers, ... we mean to read the Word and pray. Before we know it our day is spent and we're just too tired; we'll do it tomorrow. Mother Teresa said," There is more hunger for love and appreciation in this world than for bread." In our fast-paced, materialistic world, hearts are crying out ...

... , is LOVE !" Thank you God for your gift of Love, through Jesus, at Christmas.*This Christmas, you just might ask God to give you the name of someone who you could become a" Unseen Angel" for, at Christmas. Whether it be an anonymous gift given to someone who's struggling ... A Case For Christmas Giving She never knew just how difficult the holidays would be without him. It was hard to believe that their once, happy marriage was suddenly over. They divorced in the fall of that year. Still, the pain and heartbreak of their divorce continued to penetrate the deepest places of her ... a wonderful, caring, heart knew of her situation, and cared enough to share the gift of Christmas as is was meant to be. A gift given in humbleness, given in quietness, and most of all, given in Love. She was able to purchase two presents with the anonymous gift, one for ...

... A Look Of Love For those of us who have pets, we know that they are loyal to us and give us these looks that make our heart tender. They are a joy to us and give us companionship. There is One who gives us looks of Love, Peace, Joy, Happiness, and ... gets irritable with us. He never takes anything out on us. He remains Faithful and Loyal no matter how we treat Him. Let ’ s start giving others a look of Love that will warm and encourage them.~Joanne Lowe~December 21, 2004 [by: Joanne Lowe, Copyright 2004-submitted ... loyal to us and give us these looks that make our heart tender. They are a joy to us and give us companionship. There is One who gives us looks of Love, Peace, Joy, Happiness, and Faithfulness. Jesus gives us these looks through other people. He has not been here for over ...

... receive more joy out of giving joy to others and {that you} should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give ," she concluded. She was aware that the key to finding happiness is in giving happiness-wherever and whenever possible. These are three keys that should neither ... in the concerns of others and in great ideas lose their desire to worry needlessly about themselves." The third is that you receive more joy out of giving joy to others and {that you} should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give ," she concluded. She was ... whatever comes your way as well as you can ," she said. She knew that the key to satisfaction in life is to take pride in whatever you're given to do, regardless how grand or humble the undertaking." Another is that you think as little as possible about yourself and as much as possible about other ...

... puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other"" Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs"" Love is when someone hurts you. And you get so mad but you ... "" Love is what makes you smile when you're tired"" Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK"" Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen ... scared anymore"" My mommy loves me more than anybody. You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night"" Love is when mommy gives daddy the best piece of chicken"" Love is when mommy sees daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford"" Love is ...

... a smile to my face. She is all the more amazing due to the fact that she lost her sight halfway through her life. She had to give up her career and relearn to do everything that most of us take for granted. Many would have given up after such a loss but not her. Instead ... embarked on a glorious new life full of award winning volunteer work. Her days are full of teaching English to new immigrants, counseling hurting hearts, writing, serving her religious community, and helping others in every way she can. The light of my friend ’ s example is a beacon that I try to follow ... full of shining smiles. I hope then that when you go through your own life you are not distracted by the murky view that this world so often gives you. I hope that you see it for the illusion it is and instead look at life with the clear vision of your heart ’ s eyes. God ...

... to know some of the people in our little community we had decided to do some volunteer work for the local library. It was a way we could give and feel appreciated in some small way. Today we had helped with a community Christmas party. I had played the part of Santa. Now, though, ... Inspirational and Christian MESSAGES-A 'Sign ' For Santa (Giving and receiving love ). ... the aid of one of Santa's own little" elves ", Santa grabbed the old Polaroid and returned to Dewey the" I love you" sign he had given the year before. We left it on his door, and went home for our own Christmas celebration. I can hardly wait to see what happens this Christmas ...

... enthusiasm for life, and boundless appetite. Most of all, though, our Snoopy shares her namesake ’ s loving nature. She will bound up and give anyone close enough a shower of kisses. The kids and I don ’ t mind this at all and will laugh happily at her cheerful affection. The cats ... for a special reason. In the midst of our daily work, struggles, and details of living they remind us of what life is truly about: giving love and sharing joy. May we always clearly see the lessons they teach. May we always follow them in our hearts, souls, and lives as well ... , however, often react like" Lucy" and will leap for higher ground to get away from the dreaded dog germs. Watching my Snoopy Girl has given me a fresh lesson in living. From now on I am going to try and follow her wonderful example. Like her I am going to do my best ...

... secure lives and live in countries where it is a freedom to worship and believe as we wish. We know that this verse ultimately means that those who give their lives for Jesus, for believing in Him and His salvation, inherit the kingdom of heaven. But, on a more superficial level, do we ever ... joy in hearing a little one count to ten for the first time, or a teen finally understanding the physics homework. It is a million little presents given to us daily by a God who loves us. Make no mistake, our persecution, as a SAHM is minute compared to that suffered by the true martyrs ... decision to follow God's will for our lives, and we will encounter tough times because of it. But, God is gracious, we know that He gives us daily the little joys that sustain us in our` career ' choice, and that ultimately, He will welcome us into His kingdom. About the author ...

... and an occasional scratch behind the ears. Why would God bother to make such a creature? I suppose that if dogs were like people they would eventually give up on us. but they never do. A dog ’ s love is almost impossible to destroy, because it ’ s not a love you earn; ... ’ s simply a love you are given. In other words, dogs love unconditionally. Unconditional love; unending patience; faithfulness to the very end. Do you suppose, just perhaps, that God made dogs to show us a little something about Himself? Do you think maybe" man's best friend" is really ... , there is nothing more selfless, loving or patient than a dog. Mistreat it and it comes back to you anyway. Ignore it and it never gives up hope that you will be its friend again. Make it wait days to go play, and it will still be ready. It offers you friendship and ...

... one human life do? I am going to do my best then to live my own life well. I am going to do all I can to give hope to the weary, to comfort the tired, and to feed those with hungry hearts. I am going to try and live so that my last days ... my hand and looked at it closely. It looked like it had lived its life well. It probably had first popped out on a cold April morning giving the first hope of Spring to some Winter weary soul who saw it. It must have given shelter to singing birds and shade to tired children too. From ... holes in it I would guess that it gave more than one meal to a hungry insect during the hot Summer months. Now it was ending its life at its most beautiful with its radiant red adding to the glorious painting from God that covers the mountains during Autumn here. I knew too that its work wasn ’ ...

... today millions of kids wear them. If your kids are among them, ask them if they know the story behind the bracelets. If they don't, give them a copy of In His Steps. It's a book millions have enjoyed over the century. Long after they've given up wearing the bracelets, through all the ... and temptations of life, it may inspire your kids to ask that one, quiet question:" What would Jesus do ?"" I'll go with Him, with Him all the way" [" In His Steps: What Would Jesus Do ?"-from Keith Todd] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ... newspaper has been accepting lucrative ads from the local saloons. Would Jesus do this? No, he decides-and cancels the ad. A young singer gives up a promising career on the stage to sing at tent meetings on Skid Row. A young heiress takes in a homeless woman, to the horror of her ...

... wealth to our souls. It makes us brighter, the world better, and brings God closer. May you always have the time of your life then giving the best gift of all.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: ... year between Thanksgiving and Christmas when people go shopping for special gifts for those they love. As I started to think back on the gifts I have been given over the years, however, it wasn ’ t the ones that came wrapped up under a tree that moved me the most. The gifts that most touched ... the greatest gift of all The love that God has for us and the love that we share with each other is what life is all about. Love gives meaning to our days, joy to our hearts, and wealth to our souls. It makes us brighter, the world better, and brings God closer. ...

... kind smile never changed either not even when a friend gave her some good natured teasing about the mess. I knew then that this Mom was going to give her son a lifetime full of laughter and love. I think that God must smile down on us with that same look at times. We are His beloved ... truly warmed my heart. The baby had finally taken his eyes off the shattered jar and looked up at his Mom. Instead of scolding him or even giving him an angry look she smiled down at him with eyes full of gentle understanding and unconditional love. Her tender gaze and kind smile never changed either not even ... love. Still, we stumble, fall, let important things slip through our fingers, and even break a few hearts along the way. God never gives up on us, however. He forgives us and fills our hearts, souls, and lives with His gentle understanding and unconditional love. May we all learn ...

... family I asked my Dad why we always gave so many of our vegetables away. He said," Son, not everyone has as much as we do. They can use our help. Besides, if we didn ’ t give these vegetables away they would just go to waste" Now that I have been on this world a lot longer I can see the wisdom in my Dad ’ s words. I can see too that they apply not just to vegetables but ... Giving Your Life Away Sometimes the greatest lessons in life come at the oddest moments. One of mine came when I was helping to harvest our gardens as a boy. We had four of them and they took a lot of work. In the fall, however, they produced more than enough vegetables for the whole year. Every year my Dad would separate a part of them to share with friends and people in the community. One time while we were loading up ...

... 000 rupees ?" the bishop asked. The man still showed no excitement, so the bishop carefully raised the amount to 50, 000 and finally to 100, 000 rupees." If I got 100, 000 rupees, I would give half of it to you, your Excellency ," the man replied. The bishop had a heart attack, and the man called an ambulance. We can get excited about winning and getting. But have you learned how fun it is to ... Hooked On Giving Dr. Mar Aprem of the ancient Chaldean Orthodox Church of the East in India tells a funny story about when a member of the church won a lottery worth 100, 000 rupees. His wife went to the bishop and told him that she was afraid to tell this glad news to her husband because he had a heart problem and any sudden excitement could cause a heart attack. The bishop offered to break the news gently to her husband. He visited ...

... not to rely on ourselves, but on god who can raise the dead. 2 Corinthians 1: 8, 9 There is an eternal life to come." Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the Glory He will give us later" Romans 8: 18" He will keep you strong right up to the end, and He will keep you free from all blame on the great day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns" 1 Corinthians 1: 8 The ... as I am concerned, God turned into good what you meant for evil. He brought me to the high position I have today so I could save the lives of many people" Genesis 50: 19, 20 God has not given up on you! Don't give up on him." For I know the plans I have for you ," says the Lord." They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope" ...

... ON-GOD CAN'T SLEEP? BEFORE YOU COUNT THE SHEEP. HAVE A LITTLE CHAT WITH THE SHEPHERD-GOD GOODNESS KNOWS !!!-GOD TO ALL THE" MEN" DRIVING OUT THERE WHO ARE LOST; PULL OVER, AND I'LL GIVE YOU DIRECTIONS-GOD TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN-GOD MY BLESSINGS ARE NOT ALWAYS IN" DISGUISE"-WOULD YOU RECOGNIZE ONE?-GOD TO ALL THE UNBORN, I LOVE YOU. I LOVE YOU. ... interest! His pain is your gain! WARNING: Exposure to the Son may 'prevent ' burning! GOD is like Hallmark cards: HE cared enough to send the very best." Rapture-the only way to fly "! God gives every bird its food, but He does not throw it into its nest. For all you do, his bloods for you! T.G.I.F.-Thank God I'm Forgiven. Jesus, don't leave earth without Him! Christ's return is near ...

... have a friend who prepares taxes. He lamented with me once about some of his wealthier clients-those with six and seven figure incomes. Some of these people, he said, even despite the obvious tax benefits, refused to give any of their money away. Some are spending more money on grooming their pets than on feeding hungry children. They simply have not discovered the importance and power of giving. And sadly, these wealthier clients are in a position to do ... significant, but they choose to do nothing at all. Author Kent Nerburn wrote a book titled LETTERS TO MY SON: A Father's Wisdom on Manhood, Life, and Love. In one letter, he teaches his son the value of generosity:" Remember to be gentle with yourself and others. We are all children of chance, and none can say why some fields will blossom and others lay brown beneath the August sun. Care for those around you. Look past ...

... My good friend and neighbor is dying. She has battled more health problems through the years than anyone should have to endure. Now as she approaches her 57th birthday she knows that it will probably be her last. She has started giving away a lot of her things so her loving husband won ’ t be stuck with her" Junk" as she says. She has already given me several books, containers, clothes for my daughter, and a beautiful Hawaiian shirt to ... to my collection. She has given all of us around her much more than just her stuff, though. She has also given us her friendship, her kindness, and her joyous smile. She has given us her wit, wisdom, and sweet laughter. She has given us her shining spirit that has made all of our lives so much brighter. When my daughter turned 19 my friend made her a red velvet cake and talked with her about what is important in ...

... thoughts about ourselves and others. If we want to love someone, we need to consider their needs and desires. The second secret? the power of GIVING. If you want to receive love, all you have to do is give it! The more love you give, the more you will receive. To love is to give of yourself, freely and unconditionally. Practice random acts of kindness. Before committing to a relationship, ask not what the other person will ... Loving thoughts create loving experiences and loving relationships. Affirmations can change our beliefs and thoughts about ourselves and others. If we want to love someone, we need to consider their needs and desires. The second secret? the power of GIVING. If you want to receive love, all you have to do is give it! The more love you give, the more you will receive. To love is to give of yourself, freely and unconditionally. Practice random acts of ...

... in the Spring, walk barefoot in the grass in the Summer, romp in the leaves in the Fall, and make snow angels every Winter. It helps me to keep my arms, hands, and face in good shape by giving me plenty of time to hug my kids, pet my dogs and cats, and smile at all of life ’ s simple pleasures. It allows me to take long walks on warm evenings and feel the breeze on my face. It ... to hear what it was advertising before I switched to another station. The fast track in life has never been for me anyway. I have always found my own success in life on the slow track. Being on the slow track gives me time to talk to my friends and be with my family. It lets me watch the sun rise in the morning sky and set at the end of the day. It gives me moments to sip coffee and laugh at the comics ...

... With Words jump out at me. When I heard someone today say," To begin with" my thoughts turned to all the possibilities. To begin with. Faith You cannot say that you have faith if when you fall you give up. Faith means you will be given the strength to rise, or the hand to be lifted up. But don't lie there waiting. God provides for the smallest bird, but He doesn't throw the seed into the nest. They ... created to fly. To begin with. Hope Trust that in all things there is hope. Even when we cannot see the opportunity, there it is in the out stretched hand, the listening ear, the smiling face, the sunrise. To begin with. Love If you cannot see love in your life perhaps you need to put life in your love. Begin by accepting who you are and all you can be. This confidence will give you the power to love ...

... . How can one describe being humbled? The patients asked for our prayers. We visited with every patient in the wing. We left the patients with a smile. When we left the hospital, we had nothing else left to give, but we received much. Our emotions were drained, we were exhausted, in tears but felt elevated to a 'high ' impossible to describe. We all thought" But for the grace of God. Last stop. We visited my ... A Gift of Giving Looking forward to Christmas 1995, to me, described a paradox. How can one enjoy Christmas when their loving spouse recently passed away from cancer, and yet Christmas is a time for celebration. I had a friend, recently divorced, who was going through his first Christmas without his children that he loved so dearly. I called my friend and invited him over to my house for Christmas. He didn't seem overly thrilled, but had nothing else ...

... Ever Increasing Joy One of the most fascinating discoveries that I have made in my life is that no matter how much love you give to others or joy you share with them you still end up with more than you started with. It is a wonderful miracle that never stops amazing me. When I smile and wave at my neighbor across the road I send all of my joy with it. Yet, when I go back inside my house I find that I have ... . Still, when I look inside myself afterwards I find that the love within me has increased once again. I still smile everyday at this wonderful miracle although it must drive the mathematicians crazy. I rejoice in this special law of giving that God has blessed our hearts and souls with. I thank God for the ever increasing joy, love, peace, happiness, goodness, and delight that flows back into my life whenever I share it with others. I hope too ...

... see and do. The Holy Spirit will allow you to cast your burdens to God. So, I gathered, if I invite the Holy Spirit into my 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 ' ... to God and seeing things differently. My attack was less than twenty-four hours ago and I have just begun the journey-one that I thought I was already on. Last night was proof I wasn't. I love to help others. It gives me a great feeling when I reach someone with my words. But, you know what? I need help, too. We all do. And the Holy Spirit was right there inside of me, helping me in a way that ...

... of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another cook. If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home and give all that I have to charity, but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing. If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir's cantata ... . Love doesn't envy another's home that has coordinated Christmas china and table linens. Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way. Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return but rejoices in giving to those who can't. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust. But giving the ...

... church. So the pastor paid him a visit." I see you're doing quite well now ," she observed." I was just wondering about the promise you made"" What promise ?" he asked." You said you'd give $20, 000 to the church if you recovered"" I did ?" he exclaimed." That goes to show you just how sick I really was !" It is easy to give thanks-or to show it-when we ... feel more thankful? Here are three simple steps to help anybody live more thankfully and to respond more authentically. First, recognize WHEN a thankful response is appropriate. We take for granted too many of the things that we should be giving thanks for. Second, spend a moment reflecting on how another's thoughtfulness makes you feel. Be intentional about this. Then third, from a sincere feeling of gratitude, give thanks. When you do, you will also discover that you ...

... When Children Learn When children learn that happiness is not found in what a person has but in who that person is. When they 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 ... hardships may ravage one's outer shell, they can enhance one's character and perspective. When they learn to withhold judgment of people, knowing everyone is blessed with good and bad qualities, and the emergence of either often depends on the help given or hurt inflicted by others. When they learn that every person has been given the gift of a unique self, and purpose of life is to share the very best of that gift with the world. When children learn these ideals and ...

... because you are my followers-wonderful !" The Message tells us," .count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. You can be glad when that happens-give a cheer even!-for though they don't like it, I do !" We know that this verse applies first and foremost to those who have truly suffered for their faith in Jesus Christ. Those who have been or are imprisoned, ... Him clearly, ask Him again! Ask Him for strength, ask Him for assurance, ask Him for peace and he will give it to you. In Matthew 7: 7-8 Jesus tells us," Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks received; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened" This, of ...

... person you want to be. It makes your ears sharp by listening to lovely music, singing birds, tinkling wind chimes, and the three greatest words in the world," I love you" It keeps your lips fit by giving thanks to God all day long. It keeps your voice strong by singing beautiful songs. It helps your teeth shine by sharing your smile. It gives your arms a workout with hug after hug. It helps out both the taste buds ... the stomach by sharing good food with people you love. It keeps those legs firm and healthy by dancing in delight and walking with God. It gives your insides a lot of work with happy and frequent doses of laughter. It makes your heart stronger by giving your love to everyone. It makes your soul even brighter by sharing its light with the whole world. It makes every bit of your life more fit by helping you to do what you were always meant to ...

... to ourselves, God has a positive answer for it. You say:" It's impossible" God says: All things are possible (Luke 18: 27) You say:" I'm too tired" God says: I will give you rest (Matthew 11: 28-30) You say:" Nobody really loves me" God says: I love you (John 3: 16 and John 13: 34) You say:" I can't go on" God says ... : 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 ...

... one that has a cat, dog, or young child sitting on it. A clean house isn ’ t always a happy house. The best homes look lived in, laughed in, and loved in. It is hard to give away a smile. It almost always gets returned to you. Arms are meant for hugging, hands are meant for holding, and lives are meant for living. You can ’ t give too much love or share too much joy. ... has filled me with hundreds of little lessons that have brought so much laughter into my life, love into my heart, and joy into my soul. Here are just a few of the many wonderful bits of wisdom that life has given me. When raking leaves in the backyard always rake them into a big pile. This makes it easier for you and your children to jump and play in them. Shoveling snow off the driveway isn ’ t complete until you make a ...

... on that thing. Not just the average compound fracture either. You see, women nearing mid-life don't want to sass gravity. Case in point: Before approaching that mid-season of life, we can spot a friend some distance away and give a big, friendly wave. Not so as we approach forty. I've noticed the last few years when I give one of those big waves, the hand part of the wave is long over before that fluttery stuff that used to be ... front page of The National Informer under" UFO Has Neighborhood Up in the Air" It's one more reminder that life definitely has its ups and downs. Let me bounce this idea off of you: For every" down ," God gives us an opportunity to be someone else's" up" Second Corinthians 1: 3-5 says," Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us ...

... into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink. Read John 19: 28-30. Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10: 10-11. Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus ' followers, and the ... arrested, He was beaten by the Roman soldiers. Read John 19: 1-3. Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink. Read John 19: 28-30. Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10: 10-11. Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand ...

... heart and work from your soul. Every time you share a smile at work God smiles as well. Every time you bring a little laughter to those you work with you bring laughter to the angels as well. Every time you give a little love from your heart and joy from your soul you do the work of Heaven while still here on Earth. The work of machines may make our lives better, but it is the work of our souls that make life worth ... 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 ...

... 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 ... 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 ...

... living things-not counting household plants, flowers, grass and tomatoes. Our five children somehow manage to survive-even thrive-despite all the bad feng shui and negative karma. They are all healthy, happy and well-adjusted, give or take the occasional drama major. And that, after all, is what really matters. At least, that's what my wife Anita said." This is just stuff ," she said soothingly, reassuringly, as I wrote out a ... the automotive afterlife, our washing machine to laundry Valhalla and our home computer through those big Windows in the sky. They join the lifeless metallic bodies of our dishwasher, our microwave oven and our food processor, all of which have given up the electronic ghost during the last few months. If there were laws against appliance abuse, I'd be public enemy number one. Thankfully, we do better with living things-not counting household plants, flowers, grass and tomatoes. ...

... sharing joy, and shining God ’ s light. And they help us to realize that we can do the same. Those who know them often become better because of them too. I know that my daughter ’ s kind, giving, and loving heart has grown stronger and more beautiful because of them. She has had to face a lot growing up with two" special" brothers, but she has used it all to become the wonderful, young woman she is ... glows so brightly. She has already become one of those shining souls who makes the world a better place just by being in it. I think that I will remain one glad dad for all of my days here. Life has given me a lot of challenges and struggles to face, but God has given me the love, joy, and strength to face them. Life has given me two handicapped sons to raise and care for, but Heaven has blessed me with ...

... the thing that makes life worth living is still free. God loves us and is willing to fill us with His love everyday of our lives. Even when our wallets are empty our hearts can still be full. God will always give us just what we need as well to live, learn, and love. There is no supply and demand with God ’ s love either because the supply is endless. The more love you give away, the more love you will ... . May we all help God share His love today then. It costs us nothing but gives us everything.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... soul my arms will always be around them. I hope that you share a few hugs yourself today. I hope that you hang a sign on your heart that says," two arms, no waiting" I hope that you give your love to all those around you. I hope that you shine a smile to everyone you meet. I hope that you fill your every phone call, letter, or e-mail with" heart hugs" as well. Life is short ... If I had it to do over I would have hugged them a dozen times a day, every single day they were with me. If I could have those moments back I would have followed the example of my own son who gives me more hugs everyday than I can count. I would have taken the lead of my son ’ s childhood friend too. She may be confined to a wheelchair but she can still hug your heart out with the squeeze of her hand ...

... Finer Than Wealth I love the story about an angel who suddenly appears at a faculty meeting and tells the dean of the college that, in return for his unselfish and exemplary behavior, he will be given his choice of infinite wealth, wisdom or beauty. Without hesitating, the dean selects infinite wisdom." Done !" says the angel, and disappears in a cloud of smoke and a bolt of lightning. Now, all heads turn toward the dean, who sits ... it, yet within reach, is joy. There is a radiance and glory in the darkness, could we but see, and to see we have only to look. I beseech you to look. Life is so generous a giver..." You have already been offered things even finer than infinite wealth. Will you grasp them and make them yours-today?~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2007 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ ...

... for more work to do as well. I find that time better spent thinking of God, watching the sunset, singing a song, and laughing with my family and friends. The funny thing too is that now that I am giving myself time to live I find myself doing better and accomplishing more than I ever did before. Most of all, though, my time is now spent joyously and my days on Earth feel closer to Heaven. Abraham Lincoln said," ... the time of my life living the way God meant for me to. Now days you won't find me on the road quite so often then. I try to combine my errands and limit my trips as much as possible. It gives me more time to read a good book with a cat sleeping on my lap and a dog curled up at my feet. Now days you won't find me watching so much television either. I find that time better spent going for walks ...

... , by passing on the light that Christ has given me. I want to always remember who I am in Christ and make sure others do so too. So, when Satan looks you in the face and woos you-don't give in. Just" Remember Who You are"-You are God's child, You are very precious in His sight and His precious blood was shed for you, never let HIM down. [Author Unknown-submitted by: Caroline Naoroji ... words stitched on it:" Remember Who You are" These words got embedded in my heart so strongly that it always pulls me out of temptations that come by my way all the time. There were times when I had almost given in, but I could hear Jim's rusty voice saying" Remember Who You Are". At that moment the love of Christ flashes in my mind and makes me remember who I am, I just run back to Christ, who is ...

... you deal with your parents who were having a hard time adjusting to the idea of letting you go. At graduation your idea of a good friend was the person who was crying on the inside but managed the biggest smile one could give as they congratulated you. The summer after twelfth grade your idea of a good friend was the person who helped you clean up the bottles from that party, helped you sneak out of the house when you just couldn't deal with your parents ... reassurance that you would make it in college as well as you had these past 18 years, and most importantly sent you off to college knowing you were loved. Now, your idea of a good friend is still the person who gives you the better of the two choices, holds your hand when you're scared, helps you fight off those who try to take advantage of you, thinks of you at times when you are not there, reminds you of what you have ...

... been married three times, she was hard, cold, and did everything by the book. One morning the two nurses who were to attend to Edith were sick. Edith had the flu and Phyllis Cross had to go in and give her a shot. When she walked in, Edith had a big smile on her face and said," Phyllis, God loves you and I love you, and I have been praying for you" Phyllis Cross said," Well ... makes mistakes? You have just told me I'm going to see my precious Lord Jesus, my husband, and my friends. You have just told me that I am going to celebrate Easter forever, and here you are having difficulty giving me my ticket !" Dr. Phillips thought to himself," What a magnificent woman this Edith Burns is !" Edith continued coming to Dr. Phillips. Christmas came and the office was closed through January 3rd. On the day the office ...

... becoming aware, however, at just how short even the longest life here on Earth is. I see children swinging at my son's school and I can remember when I attended that same school and swung on those same swings. I give my son and daughter a hug and notice that they are almost as tall as me now. I can remember, though, when I could hold them in the crook of one arm while I rocked them to sleep. I mow the ... that my body too will one day be resting under a headstone and that my time on this wonderful world will be over as well. I am doing my best then not to miss a moment of this glorious life I have been given and I urge you not to miss a moment of yours either. Enjoy every day that God in His love has given you on this world. Take the time to pet your dogs before you put on their leashes for a walk. ...

... rewind or a pause button and can only be lived moment by moment. Do your best then to embrace each moment as it comes. Celebrate each and everyone of them as a gift from God. Cherish the moments of love you give and the moments of joy you share. Learn from your moments of pain and grow from your moments of failure. Most of all, though, take the time to pause for a moment right now and give thanks to God for your ... and all the moments of happiness it has brought you. Life may be momentary but the love it gives you lasts forever.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2009 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... my friends know it, now YOU know it -and Choco Anonymous should be very happy with my complete confession. I've taken the first step on the road to recovery! OK, if you REALLY know me, you know I don't give up my chocolate THAT easy -and that somewhere, amidst the drippings and delight of my hilarious habit, there would be a devotional. There is! Blame it on three friends, who last week sent me three chocolate links .one link daring ... , double dip, in a waffle cone. I can almost taste it .that idea has now gone down to my heart. It's starting to take over my LIFE! I LICK IT!-Now it's a tummy-taker, 'cause I've given in! I've satisfied my desire; I've indulged -and OH, it tastes wonderful. I should do this EVERY day -it's good for my health! I LOATHE IT!-it's become a toe-stomper, 'cause I'd like to STOMP on that ...

... their children, is to love each other. Harsh words break no bones but they do break hearts. To get out of a difficulty, one usually must go through it. We take for granted the things that we should be giving thanks for. Love is the only thing that can be divided, without being diminished. Do what you can, for who you can, with what you have, and where you are. Happiness is enhanced by others but does not ... can ruin the present by worrying over the future. Love.... and you shall be loved. All people smile in the same language. A hug is a great gift, one size fits all. It can be given for any occasion and it's easy to exchange. Everyone needs to be loved, especially when they do not deserve it. The real measure of a man's wealth is what he has invested in eternity. Laughter is liquid sunshine. Everything has ...

... their children, is to love each other. Harsh words break no bones but they do break hearts. To get out of a difficulty, one usually must go through it. We take for granted the things that we should be giving thanks for. Love is the only thing that can be divided, without being diminished. Happiness is enhanced by others but does not depend upon others. You are richer today if you have laughed, given or forgiven. For every minute ... , but you can ruin the present by worrying over the future. Love. and you will be loved. All people smile in the same language. A hug is a great gift, one size fits all. It can be given for any occasion and it's easy to exchange. Everyone needs to be loved, especially when they do not deserve it. The real measure of a man's wealth is what he has invested in eternity. Laughter is liquid sunshine. Everything has ...

... almost every evening, he would call one of his children to himself, lay his hand upon their head and speak these words:" You are a reflection of the face of God. The world is brighter for the joy you give me this day. I bless you my child" One night he had a dream in which he saw his father and heard him saying over and over:" Poor me! Poor me! I will die a sad old man because ... stack some wood, he was about to go home when she stopped him, placed her hand on his head and said," You are a reflection of the face of God. The world is brighter for the joy you have given me this day. I bless you my child !" The boy stepped back, amazed:" What was that ?"" Why, it was a blessing my child! Haven't you ever received a blessing ?" Back at home he asked ,: ...

... kindness" He said," Then I thank you from my heart" As Howard Kelly left that house, he not only felt stronger physically, but his faith in God and man was strong also. He had been ready to give up and quit. Year's later that young woman became critically ill. The local doctors were baffled. They finally sent her to the big city, where they called in specialists to study her rare disease. Dr. Howard Kelly was called ... 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: Luke 6: 38 tells us if we give, it will be given back to us, pressed down, shaken together, and overflowing. We however, look to God and not the person to return the gift. God uses those whom He chooses and those who will be obedient to Him to return the ...

... have lost their way too and ended up in my ears. I can ’ t really blame them, though. All of those wrinkles on my face must be tough for them to navigate through. Still, I wouldn ’ t give up a single wrinkle or grey hair. I ’ ve earned them all. They are the evidence of every laugh and smile I ’ ve ever had. Sometimes, however, I am amazed at how my young soul ended up in ... the wrinkles fall where they may. Fill your days with learning and becoming through both dark hair and grey. Fill your days with love and joy and you will be too busy living them to count them. Remember, God only gives us a short time here. It is up to us to make the most of it.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages ...

... is true. For He is desiring that His servants be different and be Christ-like in all that we do. As incredible as it sounds, He wants us to repay them with a blessing instead of more pain. And He will give us the power we need to be kind and the strength we need to refrain. We have to trust Him and fully believe Him Knowing His ways truly are best. We have to be encouraged knowing He saw the injustice and let Him ... us comfort and rest. The person who offends us is not declared innocent by the kindness we place on their head. But God takes all the heartache retaliation would bring us and gives us a blessing instead.-Sheila Gosney-[ by: Sheila Gosney-from 'andychaps_the-funnies ' (Andychap @aol.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... him in a manger" Luke 2: 7 D is for David and his ancient throne Promised forever to Jesus alone." He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David" Luke 1: 32 E is for East, where shone the bright star Which Magi on camels followed afar." Behold, there came wise men from the East to Jerusalem, saying, ... " 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 ...

... friend when he visited his Gramparents, sat with Ralph's older brother and his friends." After this" Sam says between his hot-dog on a stick bites." I'm getting a cotton candy"" Yeah ," Ralph added." Give me my money now Eddie" Ralph stuck out his sticky fingers. Big brother Eddie stood up and reached into his pocket." You kids stay close. We're gonna go on that coaster soon and I want you with us. So ... he makes them anyway, knowing what they'll do so others can learn"" I don't think God makes bad people on purpose. It just happens that way. Man's will is free, he can choose what he likes. God gives him life and hopes he'll choose what's right. It's kind of like throwing a hand full of sand out on the ground. No matter how many times you throw it out, it's never going to land the same" Grampa throws a ...

... one step and one day at a time. K eep written goals set ahead. Make specific plans to accomplish them. L ove and forgive everybody. M aximize your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. N ever, never, never give up! O pen the door wide when opportunity knocks. P ractice patience. Promote peace. Q uit bad habits by replacing them with good habits. R ead God's Word and other profitable material every chance you get. S hare the ... whenever and wherever possible. T ake time to appreciate everything and everyone God has given to you. U se your God given common sense. V isualize your dreams and stretch to reach for them. W atch, listen and pray without ceasing. X amine your motives on a regular basis. Y ield to the Holy Spirit when He prompts you. Z oom in on God's real purpose for your life. [Author Unknown-from 'E-Mail Ministry ' (emailministry @emailministry.org ...

... , or hold your cats. Take the time to watch the sunrise, the sunset, and to notice the moon smiling down on you. Pray. Hold all the hands you can, pat all the backs you can, and give all the compliments you can. Always say" Please and thank you" Pray some more. If a kind word comes to your lips speak it, if a kind thought comes to your mind think it, and if a kind deed ... . Give this world all of your talents, your laughter, your energy, your joy, and your light. Be an obedient child, a caring spouse, a devoted parent, a doting grandparent, a cherished friend, a giving neighbor, and a good Samaritan every chance you get. Most of all, though, always remember that it is Love that makes a good life" good". In the book" In search of the Beyond ," Carlo Correto gave ...

... into the house shouting," Mom, Mom, guess what happened today? Just like I always did, I said I'd really like to be your friend, and one of the girls said," Okay, Edie, we give up, we'll be your friend" Edie and her mom thanked the Lord for His faithfulness. A short time later, as the girls were trying to become friends, Edie asked the teacher if she could sit at a table with these ... and frustration. They pinched, poked, and pushed tiny Edie and threatened to beat her up. Edie had spent an hour in the principal's office with the three girls and was assured the teachers would be watching. The girls were given a warning. Edie's mother held her little one and comforted her. She learned later, after speaking with the principal, that the girls had been troublemakers at several other schools. They were being given one more chance at anew beginning. ...

... felt ineffectual in many aspects of my life. So there I was, with my coworker-a woman who needed reassurance, who needed support, who needed motivation. And I was not sure I had any of those things to give. Without great enthusiasm I started one of my standard pep talks." You know, JoAnn, it isn't the job that you do that is important, it is how you do your job" It sounded incredibly trite as I said ... I was not sure it was a convincing speech for JoAnn and I was certain it didn't convince me. I felt even more tired, more spent. It was like what little bit of hope, if any, which had been given to JoAnn was drained from me, leaving me with none. I gathered my coat, and walked head bowed and disheartened down the hall. As I turned down a hallway, I passed a small rectangular piece of paper on the floor ...

... What I did have however was a distorted view of God. I felt as if He was withholding a mate from me because I wanted one so badly. It was as if He were saying to me," See, I'll give all of your friends husbands and children but not you, you're not worthy, you ’ re not good enough. You don't deserve a mate" I was truly at a crossroads in my walk with the Lord. I wasn't sure it ... longing for a love of my own, someone to care for, to cherish, and yet I was so blind not to see that I already had someone -in Christ. For no love can ever compare with the love that Jesus gives. He is the only one who can fill the hunger, the need, the craving in our hearts to be loved. Only Jesus. I imagine that there are other singles who feel the same way that I did then, frustrated ...

... problems at home, but Duane had made them into something beautiful-two precious gems. Although my ear was deformed, Duane still wanted me to have pretty earrings. Although Duane did not have much money, he still wanted to give. Whenever I see Duane's gift on my desk, it encourages me. If I am having trouble reaching a student, I try to be like Duane and give that student a piece of my heart. Out of the good heart of ... 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 ...

... all the way home. If I griped about not having a radio the next time the engine would not start at all. But, when I laughed about and accepted all of Goliath ’ s problems it would run for weeks without giving me any trouble at all. I would pat its steering wheel with love and sing along to my old cassette tape as I drove home in joy. God taught me a lot about life with that car. My giant, old, ... car showed me that you have to appreciate what God gives you in this life. You have to rejoice in the good and grow stronger and more loving from the bad. You have to see that worrying and complaining only add to your misery and realize that you can select laughter, love and joy instead. You have to reach a point where you take whatever life gives you and use it to make this world a better, happier, and more loving place. You ...

... what do you do when all else fails, when somebody stubbornly refuses to behave ?" quot; he pressed." quot; Ah ," quot; came the reply," quot; if it comes to that, then we don't give him anything to do" quot; The ultimate punishment-don't give them any work! If that doesn't sound so bad, just ask those who are unemployed how they feel about not working. It has been wisely said," quot ... he asked leaders how they dealt with the problem of misbehavior-when people rebelled against the colony's strict rules. He was told that these people were first asked to correct their behavior. If they did not respond, they would be given a stern" quot; talking to" quot;" quot; But what do you do when all else fails, when somebody stubbornly refuses to behave ?" quot; he pressed." quot; Ah ," quot; came the reply ...

... hope. If the soft fur of a favored pet still feels pleasant under your fingertips, then you still have hope. If you meet new people with a trace of excitement and optimism, then you still have hope. If you give people the benefit of a doubt, then you still have hope. If you still offer your hand in friendship to others that have touched your life, then you still have hope. If receiving an unexpected card or letter still brings a ... the phrase" yeah .BUT" then you still have hope. Hope is such a marvelous thing. It bends, it twists, it sometimes hides, but rarely does it break. It sustains us when nothing else can. It gives us reason to continue and courage to move ahead, when we tell ourselves we'd rather give in. Hope puts a smile on our face when the heart cannot manage. Hope puts our feet on the path when our eyes cannot see it ...

... your sins" (Matthew 6: 14-15 NIV) O God, Father of all things, we thank you for the infinite mercy you have shown us, your children. May we love one another as you have loved us. Give us strength so that we may forgive our transgressors as you have forgiven us. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen [by Charles Edwin Price-from 'Themestream '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ... owed many thousands of dollars, he instantly and quietly forgave the debt. The quality of mercy is not strain'd. It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice bless'd; It blesseth him that gives and him that takes. William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice The Bard certainly had it right. Mercy, indeed, blesses both the one who gives and the one who receives. Mercy is not only a quality in God, but ...

... His friends for future reference. He calls it the" Lamb's Book of Life "). The Party Is Being Given By His Kids (that's us). Hope To See You There!" Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear" (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints) ... He must know ahead so He can reserve a spot for you at the table. Also, he's keeping a list of His friends for future reference. He calls it the" Lamb's Book of Life "). The Party Is Being Given By His Kids (that's us). Hope To See You There!" Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen ...

... Clocks I have often wondered why we still have so many old fashioned face clocks and watches being made these days. Digital clocks are both more accurate and easier to read. They can instantly give you the time to the exact second and you don ’ t have to estimate by glancing at the three moving hands on a face clock. Still, in the stores the face clocks far outnumber their digital counterparts. People also spend more to have their old fashioned clocks and ... this life is a precious choice and that I should do my best to live them all in love, joy, and oneness with God. I even have a clock that is broken that I keep on my kitchen wall. It gives me the right time exactly twice each day. It also reminds me, however, that I don ’ t have forever in this life and that I should share that love, joy, and oneness with God with everyone everywhere every second ...

... to be considered bad. They seem like a nuisance sometimes but it could be that God has a reason for that distraction to happen. We must be close to Him so we can see His hand in these types of situations. Give God the glory for what you do. In John 7: 14-18 Jesus admonishes us to do just that. There are other passages of Scripture that teach this also. If you notice the ministry of Jesus, He always gave His Father ... learn from this so we can be good examples of Christ's love. Further study: Matt. 10: 8: Mark 9: 23: Mark 16: 17-18. These are a challenge for us to use the tools God has given us so we may be instruments of love and caring in His hands. Now let's get going and look for needs as we go about our daily lives to show the Love God has for others. God loves you, but pass it ...

... Handy Reference Guide For You YOU SAY: 'It's impossible ' GOD SAYS: All things are possible BIBLE VERSES: Luke 18: 27 YOU SAY: 'I'm too tired ' GOD SAYS: I will give you rest BIBLE VERSES: Matthew 11: 28-30 YOU SAY: 'Nobody really loves me ' GOD SAYS: I love you BIBLE VERSES: John 3: 1 6 & John 3: 34 YOU SAY: 'I can't go on ' GOD SAYS: My grace is sufficient ... 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 ...

... carries a message of yesterday and tomorrow-and now. NOW counts. Rest on your laurels. They bring comfort whatever their size, age, or condition. Talk slower. Talk less. Don't talk. Communication isn't measured by words. Give yourself permission to be late sometimes. Life is for living, not scheduling. Listen to the song of a bird; the complete song. Music and nature are gifts, but only if you are willing to receive them. Take time ... your own pace. When someone is pushing you, it's OK to tell them they're pushing. Take nothing for granted: watch water flow, the corn grow, the leaves blow, your neighbor mow. Taste your food. God gives it to delight as well as to nourish. Notice the sun and the moon as they rise and set. They are remarkable for their steady pattern of movement, not their speed. Quit planning how you're going to use what you know ...

... Grace The boy stood with back arched, head cocked back and hands clenched defiantly." Go ahead, give it to me" The principal looked down at the young rebel." How many times have you been here ?" The child sneered rebelliously," Apparently not enough" The principal gave the boy a strange look." And you have been punished each time have you not ?"" Yeah, I been punished, if that's what you want to call it ... Oh yes, you truly do.." The boy continued to glare as the principal continued," Grace, in its short definition is unmerited favor. You can not earn it, it is a gift and is always freely given. It means that you will not be getting what you so richly deserve" The boy looked puzzled." Your not gonna whup me? You just gonna let me walk ?" The principal looked down at the unyielding child." Yes ...

... in the midst of devastation and horror, I believe we can find newness in each new day as well. To experience God's newness, we're going to have resist the quick fixes and realize that only an encounter with the Lord can give us this newness. Sticking" new and improved" on lifeless predictability isn't going to make it spiritual renewal. Changing the menu without changing the cook is not going to leave us with anything other than a prettier environment to eat the same ... to revive the heart of the contrite" Matthew 18: 20-For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them. Matthew 28: 18-20-All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am ...

... Through a lot of perseverance, hard work, and long hours (while most kids her age are playing, I might add) she turned her life around. The biggest lesson I learned from this situation is that we should never give up on our children and by the Grace of God, a nightmare can be turned into a blessing. [Terry A Kubiak-from 'heartwarmer '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ... . It's amazing what can happen to a child when there are teachers who don't judge where you've been, and who really care about ALL the kids-not just the" normal" kids. When everyone else in the establishment has given up on these kids, these teachers keep believing. I'm so grateful for their support of my daughter. Heather will graduate June 1 at a small ceremony at a banquet hall (no caps and gowns). She has a new job ...

... , 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 ... of rising. Happily, though, there is always a hand there ready to help me back to my feet. God ’ s loving hand is always there ready to help us up and get us going again. His back never gives out either. He will walk hand in hand with us all through this life and into the next. If you stumble and fall then don ’ t be afraid. Just reach up and take your Father ’ s hand. He will ...

... care, creates a ray of sunshine for both of you to share. Yes, every time you offer someone a helping hand, every time you show a friend you understand. Every time you have a kind and gentle word to give, you help someone to find beauty in this precious life we live. For happiness brings happiness and loving ways bring love, and giving is the treasure, that contentment is made of. [Author Unknown-from (Inspiretoday @topica.com ... ] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... 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 to others with a feeling of fullness and joy. Appreciation acknowledges that we have benefited from the gift offered to us. Acceptance An accepting attitude acknowledges that another's being or behavior is received willingly. It does not reject, but rather ... Trust A trusting attitude acknowledges the positive qualities of another's character, such as honesty, integrity, reliability, justice, and sincerity. When trust is absent, people commonly jump to negative and wrong conclusions regarding a person's intent. Trust gives every offence the benefit of the doubt, positing that there must be some good explanation for why it happened. Trust grows in a relationship when each partner recognizes that the other never intends to hurt. To approach one's partner with trust is ...

... and some of us get only a day. One thing I do know, however, is that if I get them: my next 40 years are going to be my best 40 years. I am going to love more, give more, and live more. I am going to sing more, laugh more, and dance more. I am going to smile more, hug more, and listen more. I am going to take in more sunsets, pet more ... for my life. I am going to take more walks, watch more fireflies, and smell more flowers. I am going to choose more love, more joy, and more oneness with God all day long, everyday I am given. I am going to share it all with the whole world and show everyone everywhere that they can do the same. I am going to spend everyday I have left here bringing a little more Heaven to Earth before I leave Earth for ...

... and to just live in love and joy while sharing all the gifts that God gave me. We all need to stop trying to be perfect. We all need to stop judging ourselves and just love ourselves. We all need to give up on living a perfect life and enjoy living a good and beautiful life. Anne Frank wrote," Everyone has inside of him a piece of good news. The good news is that you don't know how great you can be! ... . Let us all share the beautiful colors of peace and joy from our hearts and souls with everyone everywhere. We might not be perfect, but we can still bless the world with the best within us and with the gifts God gives us. [by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire)-from 'Inspired Buffalo ' (InspiredBuffalo @lighthouse.net)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... just a little different twist. The Living Bible states," Happy are the kind and merciful". The Message states," You're blessed when you care" How simple and how true. What brought us to the point of giving up a career and becoming a SAHM? First and foremost it should have been seeking God's will for our lives and our families. Secondly, it is because we care. Now, all Moms care, whether or not they are" ... feeling, or exercising mercy; compassionate; tender; unwilling to punish for injuries; exhibiting mercy" What word better describes what a SAHM, or any Mom for that matter, does on a daily basis? Part of our God given make up, as Moms is compassion and tenderness. We often try to deny these traits in a world that seeks to make men and women not only ‘ equal, but the same. But, I believe God made us different for ...

... 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 ... 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 to that person may be. Even contentment can be dull and drab in comparison with the joy God planned for you with your marriage partner. ...

... of this is in God's promise to the children of Israel in Jeremiah 29: 11" For I know the plans I have for you, ' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" As adopted children into the family of God, we can take hold of that promise for our lives as well. God's desire for each of His children is only ever for good. We can be assured ... still walking faithfully into her awesome destiny. Every day was a challenge and adventure, and one that she faced with the confidence of knowing that the Holy Spirit was her constant companion and God's Word could always be trusted. God has given each one of us talents and spiritual gifts for the building up of the Body of Christ. In fact, Paul spoke about this when he wrote to the Church in Corinth:" Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try ...

... not feel he had anybody to turn to. On impulse, he telephoned an old friend of the family; someone his father had suggested he turn to if he ever needed good advice. The friend said he would be happy to give Red advice about the job offer under the condition that the young man takes whatever advice he was given." You might want to think about that for a couple of days before hearing my suggestion ," he was told. Two days later ... called the man back and said he was ready to listen to his counsel." Go on to New York City and have the interview ," the older man said." But I want you to go up there in a very special way. I want you to go on a train and I want you to get a private compartment. Don't take anything to write with, anything to listen to or anything to read, and don't talk to anybody except to put in ...

... 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 ... the bear hug that squeezes the air right out of your lungs. I have gotten the neck hug where the little child jumps in your arms and wraps lovingly around your neck. I have gotten the back slapper hug where the hugger gives you the bam, bam on the back. I have even gotten the leg hug which toddlers all over the world use to melt your heart. The most memorable hug I ever got, however, came when I was a teenager. ...

... Four-Legged Comedians Here is a riddle for you. What is black, white and brown, has eight legs, and can do 60 miles an hour down a carpeted hallway? Do you give up? The answer is two puppies playing together. Yes, we have a new puppy in the house named Lemmy. He came about when I mistakenly assumed that our male Saint Bernard was way too big to ever get our little female mixed-breed pregnant. Now at two months old ... me too that fur-filled carpets and teeth marked shoes are a small price to pay for a laughing soul. The theologian Karl Barth once said that" Laughter is the closest thing to the grace of God" I thank God then for giving me so many four-legged comedians to grace my life. My house may be small and crowded but I always have a lot of furry heads to pet on. My furniture may be worn and fur covered but I can get a warm snuggle ...

... reaching safety. Sometimes in the daily challenges that life gives us, we miss what is really important. We may fail to say hello, please, or thank you, congratulate someone on something wonderful that has happened to them, give a compliment, or just do something nice for no reason. As you go through this week, this month, this year, recognize people who pack your parachute. I am sending you this as my way of thanking you for your ... plane was shot down over enemy territory-he needed his physical parachute, his mental parachute, his emotional parachute, and his spiritual parachute. He called on all these supports before reaching safety. Sometimes in the daily challenges that life gives us, we miss what is really important. We may fail to say hello, please, or thank you, congratulate someone on something wonderful that has happened to them, give a compliment, or just do something nice for no reason ...

... you every joy... George Macdonald wrote that" If instead of a gem or even a flower, we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend, that would be giving as the angels give" I can remember one of the first loving thoughts that was cast into my own heart and the angel who placed it there. I was a young boy and my parents, brothers, and I were spending the afternoon at the home ... enjoy it. Wishing you every joy... George Macdonald wrote that" If instead of a gem or even a flower, we should cast the gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend, that would be giving as the angels give" I can remember one of the first loving thoughts that was cast into my own heart and the angel who placed it there. I was a young boy and my parents, brothers, and I were spending the ...

... sun. I breathed in deep and smiled. I could feel the love of God all around me and even though it was way below freezing I still felt warm inside. The writer Robert Fulghum once quoted a great piece of advice given to a friend of his. It was to" Spend one hour some Sunday watching the sunrise while walking in a cemetery" Since I have a cemetery next to my backyard I decided to follow this advice myself today. Watching the sunshine ... world was going to keep going right on without me. I saw too that if I was going to live then I needed to live now and that if I was going to love then I needed to love today. God only gives us so many days here on Earth. It is up to us to make them count. Don ’ t wait until you are six feet underground to watch the sun come up. Get out there and watch the sunrise today. Don ...

... " You must come to Him in order to receive the forgiveness that He purchased for you.*Read the menu. You must spend time reading what God has prepared. Read your Bible, meditate on the Word. It will give you strength and illumination according to God's plan for your life. It will keep you on course and remind you of your responsibilities in order to fulfill the plan of God.*Count the fruit. If you are not willing to bear ... for Him, then He is not obligated to answer your requests, even if you ask things in His name. Jesus declares," Everyone that the Father gives me will come to me, and anyone who comes to me I will never drive away" (John 6: 37). The Holy Spirit inspires us to go to Jesus and do what He asks of us. His sovereignty makes the first move toward us, but because He gave us free will, ...

... My simple Christmas hope then is that all of you try to see life with the same joy, love, kindness, peace, happiness, wonder, and delight that my son does. If you do this you truly will be giving yourself a glorious gift. If you do this God and His angels will always be smiling down on you. If you do this everyday will be Christmas.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool ... . He enjoys all the Christmas music in the air. He always shakes the hands of the Salvation Army bell ringers while I put cash in their kettles. He always enjoys the presents we get him too, but the present he gives us is far more precious. That present is seeing the way he lives with so much peace and happiness every single day of his life. He is the embodiment of the Christmas Spirit all year long. I am sure that God and ...

... Him in repentance and ask that He would forgive you and receive you unto Himself. (2 Peter 3: 9) (2 Corinthians 5: 19-21) God is a gentleman and will not force Himself upon anyone. He has given us His word as a witness of His everlasting love and mercy and has left the rest up to us, either to believe and be saved or not believe and be miserable. Jesus says in Revelation 3: 20" Behold, I ... 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 gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out" [Author Unknown-from 'Gods Work Ministry '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... and sisters. They worked so hard to keep a roof over our heads and food in our mouths. I didn't understand or appreciate the fact that my father, who was a musician, worked three jobs most of the time to give us what we needed. We had plenty of love and never were hungry. I was raised a Catholic and my parents were both organists and choir directors in the church of our small town-population 5, 000. Many times, ... perspective changed in an instant. In the early evening, as the sun set and the skies above filled with twilight, small campfires were lit. It was probably one of the most beautiful things I'd seen. All of us were given candles and were to sit in silence-reflecting. One by one we were called into a small area where Father Barry was. Before him and God it was a time to confess our sins. I'd been to confession before, but ...

... of deeper love, joy, caring, and oneness with Him. Don ’ t be afraid of the mushrooms that come your way then. Stir them in, cook them up, and enjoy the feast of life that God has given you. And don ’ t forget to set a place at the table for everyone you love.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational ... Soon I was enjoying mushrooms in soups, on steaks, in sauces, and even on pizzas. I became a true mushroom lover and have enjoyed this wonderful creation of God ever since. I realized something special too. God often gives us a lot of different" mushrooms" in our lives. Often we have to go through things and experiences that we don ’ t like and even are afraid of. After they are stirred in with the rest of our lives, ...

... one. Living in love, joy, and oneness with God is simple too, but sometimes it isn ’ t easy. It is a choice that we have to make every single day of our lives. We often have to give love in the face of hate and share joy in the face of despair. Easy or not, though, it is still worth the effort. Loving God, loving ourselves, and loving others is what we were meant for. Nothing ... we needed to build a wood shed. I can still remember the day we started it. Dad had me and my brother climb into the pick-up truck after school. A local railroad company had pulled up some unused track and was giving away the wooden ties that went with it. Dad wanted to use 4 of these ties as the corner posts for the new building. It seemed simple enough at the time. All we had to do was load them up, take ...

... my notice. Today, I will share my excitement for life with other people. I'll make someone smile. I'll go out of my way to perform an unexpected act of kindness for someone I don't even know. Today, I'll give a sincere compliment to someone who seems down. I'll tell a child how special he is, and I'll tell someone I love just how deeply I care for them and how much they mean to me. Today is the day I quit ... about what I don't have and start being grateful for all the wonderful things God has already given me. I'll remember that to worry is just a waste of time because my faith in God and his Divine Plan ensures everything will be just fine. Tonight, before I go to bed, I'll go outside and raise my eyes to the heavens. I will stand in awe at the beauty of the stars and the moon, and I will praise God for these magnificent treasures ...

... of my favorite 5 second soul strengtheners. Feel free to try them all and then to try out some of your own as well. There is no limit to what you can do to build a healthy soul. You can: give someone a hug, share a smile, hold a purring cat, pet a friendly dog, glance joyfully at the sun setting over the hills, hum a happy song, read an uplifting passage from an inspiring book, smell a flower ... keep them in shape we need to exercise them often. Don ’ t worry, though. Exercising your soul doesn ’ t require heavy weights, expensive machines, or gym club memberships. It just requires a willing heart and a giving spirit. In fact, some of the best soul exercises I know can be done in 5 seconds or less. They always leave you feeling better than when you started them and they can be done anytime of the day as well. ...

... smile. A kind word. A helping hand for those who may have only one hand. Let us not be so wrapped up in getting through the day that we see clear through the veil of suffering around us. Let us give thanks for the little things like being able to help someone in need." Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it" (Hebrews 13: 2) [by: Michele ... stroke of luck that God put you in my path this morning to remind me how blessed I really am. Blessed to be here to help you. Blessed because I can use both of my arms. Blessed because I have been given a gift of compassion which has opened my eyes to others in a world that is blind to suffering" I returned to the counter to place my coffee order. The young woman was unaware of the conversation that had just transpired between my ...

... Stand Up-For what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything." Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good" (Galatians 6: 9-10) Look Up-To the Lord." I can do everything through Him who gives me strength" (Phillipians 4: 13) ... Up-For something higher. As Jiminy Cricket sings" High Hopes" Always try to better yourself. Have FAITH." Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" (Hebrews11: 1) Lift Up-Your Prayers." Do not worry about anything; instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING" (Phillipians 4: 6) [Author Unknown-from John Traver] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... your uncle. May you feel sorrow at a funeral and the joy of holidays. I hope your mother punishes you when you throw a baseball through a neighbor's window and that she hugs you and kisses you at Christmas time when you give her a plaster of Paris mold of your hand. These things I wish for you-tough times and disappointment, hard work and happiness. [By: Paul Harvey-from Al] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ... My cherished grandson, I hope you learn humility by being humiliated, and that you learn honesty by being cheated. I hope you learn to make your bed and mow the lawn and wash the car. And I really hope nobody gives you a brand new car when you are sixteen. I hope you have a job by then. It will be good if at least one time you can see a baby calf born and your old dog put to sleep. I hope ...

... not fail to kiss thy wife every morning. (Sos 8: 1) Thou shalt not be stingy with thy wife when it comes to money. (Esther 5: 3) Ten Commandments for Wives Expect not thy husband to give thee as many luxuries as thy father hath given thee after many years of hard labor. (Phil 4: 11; Amos 4: 1) Thou shalt work hard to build thy house with the husband that you have, not fantasizing ... " the one that could have been". (Prov 14: 1) Thou shalt not nag .hit him with thine frying pan, it is kindlier. (Prov 27: 15; 21: 19) Thou shalt coddle thy husband and be a warm wife. (1 Cor 7: 3-5) Remember that the frank approval of thy husband is more to thee than the side glances of many strangers. (Ezek 16: 32; 2 Pet 2: 14) ...

... in and out I found myself behind three other people in the checkout line. I didn ’ t really mind, though, when I saw that one of my favorite cashiers was on duty. This cashier always takes the time to give you a few kind words and a warm smile along with your change. There is no extra charge for the pleasantness, cheerfulness, and goodness she gives even though they are the most valuable things in the store. As I was waiting ... checkout I glanced at one of the magazines on the rack. I noticed it had a female celebrity wearing a gem studded gown worth four times as much as my friendly cashier could make in a year. When I looked at it, however, I couldn ’ t help but think that nothing on that dress sparkled as brightly or shined as beautifully as that cashier ’ s joyful smile. In this life everyone is our teacher. Some teach us how to live and some ...

... hear from the person whom you would like to hear them from-but don't be so deaf as not to hear it from the one who says it from their heart. Never say good-bye if you still want to try-never give up if you still feel you can go on-never say you don't love a person anymore if you can't let go. Love comes to those who still hope, although they've been disappointed, to those who still believe, although they've ... then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had. It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it-but it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives. Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they'll love you back! Don't expect love in return-just wait for it to grow in their heart, but if it doesn't, be content it grew in yours. There are things ...

... " Why do you think you are feeling stronger now? It's simple. You gave Me your burdens and I'm taking care of them. I also renew your strength and cover you in my peace. Don't you know that if I give you these problems back, you will be right back where you started? Leave them with Me and forget about them. Just let Me do my job. TALK TO ME I want you to forget a lot of things. Forget what ... . I can take care of anything you put into My hands. In fact, if the truth were ever really known, I take care of a lot of things for you that you never even realize. TRUST ME Once you've given your burdens to Me, quit trying to take them back. Trust in Me. Have the faith that I will take care of all your needs. YOUR problems and your trials. Problems with the kids? Put them on My list ...

... two running in circles around me. Thankfully, I was able to drop the leashes before I ended up on the ground. As I bent down to pick up the leashes again, however, my tiniest dog, Julie decided to give me a little help. She grabbed Buddy's leash in her mouth and headed for the door. I looked on with laughter as my 10 pound Pekinese Poodle walked our 160 pound Saint Bernard back home. In addition to giving me a good ... this sight also got me to thinking. If a little dog like that can take the leash of a giant sized one and lead him in the right direction then there is no reason why all of us can't take the leash on our own lives and start walking them on the path of love and joy again. Sure we may have huge problems, large struggles, and massive difficulties in our lives, but if we let that smart, little dog that is our soul ...

... of beauty, love, and joy and for the gift of my life as well. I read the other day that many people see only one sunrise in a thousand. It saddened me to think that these gifts from God, given every morning, were being missed by so many. It made me think of all the other gifts from God that we miss, reject, or ignore as well. The arms on our bodies are wonderful gifts, but we rarely use ... our eyes to see enough either. This is why we miss so many sunrises and this is why we miss so much love and joy as well. Don't miss out on God's gifts then. Don't miss out on the opportunities God gives us every day. Seize them. Rejoice in them. Watch a sunrise with them. Do good with them. Share love and joy with them. And use them to always grow closer to the One who gave them. [by ...

... She got up and gave her mom a big hug as the card fell to the floor. On the card were these words:" This rock is more than 200 million years old. That's how long it will take before I give up on you" [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ... one night when the police called to tell her that she had to come to the police station to pick up her daughter, who was arrested for drunk driving. They didn't speak until the next afternoon. Mom broke the tension by giving her daughter a small gift-wrapped box. Her daughter nonchalantly opened it and found a small piece of a rock. She rolled her eyes and said," Cute Mom, what's this for ?"" Here's the card ," Mom said. Her ...

... used dirt, just like for the rest of us. Magic, plus super powers, and a lot of stirring. God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts. Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom? We are related. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's moms like me. What ingredients are mothers made of? God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and ... Mothers The following are answers given by elementary school-age children to various questions about their Mom: Why did God make mothers? She's the only one who knows where the Scotch Tape is. Think about it. It was the best way to get more people. Mostly to clean the house. To help us out of there when we were getting born. How did God make mothers? He used dirt, just like for the rest of us. Magic, plus super ...

... and pulling me back when I walk. My kids close their eyes, spread their arms and fly with it, until they fall to the ground laughing. When I pray, I say thee and thou and grant me this, give me that. My kids say," Hi God! Thanks for my toys and my friends. Please keep the bad dreams away tonight. Sorry, I don't want to go to Heaven yet. I would miss my Mommy and Daddy ... I see a mud puddle I step around it. I see muddy shoes and dirty carpets. My kids sit in it. They see dams to build, rivers to cross and worms to play with. I wonder if we are given kids to teach or to learn from? No wonder God loves the little children !!" Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things" I wish you mud puddles and ...

... it is our own caring souls that God uses to help heal the world. It may open us up to more pain and suffering, but God always gives us the strength, love, and goodness to handle it. It may give us a few more tears, but God makes sure that most of them are ones of joy, compassion, and kindness. It is far better to have wet eyes and a warm, loving heart than dry eyes and be dead on ... heart and joy in my soul than ever before. I have found too that it is our own caring souls that God uses to help heal the world. It may open us up to more pain and suffering, but God always gives us the strength, love, and goodness to handle it. It may give us a few more tears, but God makes sure that most of them are ones of joy, compassion, and kindness. It is far better to have ...

... it to stop. Even with all he has to go through, however, my son has still shown me so much about love and about joy. He has shown me that love must be unconditional, patient, kind, and giving. He has shown me that love means sometimes just being there for someone even though you can ’ t solve their problems or ease their pain. He has shown me that love is its own reward. He has also shown me, ... Robert Browning once said," Take away love and our Earth is a tomb" Thankfully, I have been able to choose love and avoid that tomb so far in my own life. I have been fortunate too that God has given me so many great teachers who have shown me what it really means to love. I haven ’ t always been the greatest student and I know I have a long way to go. Still, with their help I keep trying to ...

... and pulling me back when I walk. My kids close their eyes, spread their arms and fly with it, until they fall to the ground laughing. When I pray, I say thee and thou and grant me this, give me that. My kids say," Hi God !!! Thanks for my toys and my friends. Please keep the bad dreams away tonight. Sorry, I don't want to go to Heaven yet. I would miss my Mommy and Daddy ... mud puddle, I step around it. I see muddy shoes and clothes and dirty carpets. My kids sit in it. They see dams to build, rivers to cross and worms to play with. I wonder if we are given kids to teach or to be taught? No wonder God loves the little children !!! [Author Unknown-from Denial] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Just Listen I suspect that the most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention. And especially if it's given from the heart. When people are talking, there's no need to do anything but receive them. Just take them in. Listen to what they're saying. Care about it. Most times caring about it is even more important than under-standing ... . Most of us don't value ourselves or our love enough to know this. It has taken me along time to believe in the power of simple saying," I'm so sorry ," when someone is in pain. And meaning it. One of my patients told me that when she tried to tell her story people often interrupted to tell her that they once had something just like that happen to them. Subtly her pain became a story about themselves. Eventually she stopped talking ...

... . Lyons. He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll find something for you to do around the office" She smiled." I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet. And if you ever need anything, my door is always opened to you" There were tears in the old ... The Encounter One day a woman was walking down the street when she spied a beggar sitting on the corner. The man was elderly, unshaven, and ragged. As he sat there, pedestrians walked by him giving him dirty looks. They clearly wanted nothing to do with him because of who he was-a dirty, homeless man. But when she saw him, the woman was moved to compassion. It was very cold that day and the man had his ...

... be to look forward to? Be thankful when you don't know something. For it gives you the opportunity to learn. Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow. Be thankful for your limitations. Because they give you opportunities for improvement. Be thankful for each new challenge. Because it will build your strength and character. Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons. Be thankful when you're tired and weary. It means you've ... Be Thankful Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to? Be thankful when you don't know something. For it gives you the opportunity to learn. Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow. Be thankful for your limitations. Because they give you opportunities for improvement. Be thankful for each new challenge. Because it will build your strength and character. Be thankful for ...

... with God. Don ’ t keep looking for the spare change that this world gives you when you have a treasure box of priceless gems within yourself. If you want to be set for life then get yourself set to live. Give your love, share your joy, and shine your light to everyone you meet. Pray and thank God for your life everyday. Smile, laugh, sing, hug, and help everyone you can. Enjoy the true treasures of your ... bless ourselves, our families, our lives, and our world. They are love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, and oneness with God. Don ’ t keep looking for the spare change that this world gives you when you have a treasure box of priceless gems within yourself. If you want to be set for life then get yourself set to live. Give your love, share your joy, and shine your light to everyone you meet. ...

... second day so glorious. It was me who just idled through the first day grumbling about the world. And it was me who spent the second day thanking God for my life, sharing my love with everyone I could, and giving my joy to the world. I am glad that God forgives me for all the day ones I have had in my life. Thankfully, they are becoming fewer and fewer as time goes on. I am so delighted too that God ... given me so many day twos to enjoy and share with others. I hope as well to make every single day I have left in this world a day two kind of day. What kind of day do you want to live today? What kind of day do you want to live for the rest of your life? Each day here is a glorious gift from God. It is up to us, however, to" rejoice and be glad in it" Don ...

... , dear Jesus" That, of course, is how any kind of life is lived, but in particular how the Christian life works. One day at a time, every day, for the rest of your life." Give us this day our daily bread ," Jesus taught us to pray. I wonder if, up in Heaven, the Lord God ever looks at the six billion earthlings and goes," Oh no -I have to provide for all of them ... which makes him pushing 70, but don't tell him; he thinks he's still a teenager. While in his late twenties, Ron was diagnosed with diabetes. A pastor of Baptist churches in central Alabama for four decades, he has given himself two insulin shots a day ever since. Every day. For the rest of his life. Milt Gabrielse was a businessman and lay minister of music in Missouri churches, and the father of Dr. Ken Gabrielse, chairman of the ...

... down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him ten cents too much change. As he considered what to do, there seemed to him to have these voices whispering instructions into his ears. One said," You better give the dime back. It would be wrong to keep it" Another voice said," Oh forget it. It's just ten cents. Who would worry about this little amount. Anyway, the bus company already gets too much fare. ... friend of mine moved to Houston, Texas. Some weeks after he arrived, he had occasion to ride the bus from his home to the down-town area. When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him ten cents too much change. As he considered what to do, there seemed to him to have these voices whispering instructions into his ears. One said," You better give the dime back. It would be wrong to keep ...

... Remember These Words Don't let go of hope. Hope gives you the strength to keep going when you feel like giving up. Don't ever quit believing in yourself. As long as you believe you can, you will have a reason for trying. Don't let anyone hold your happiness in their hands; hold it in yours, so it will always be within you reach. Don't measure success or failure by material wealth, but by how you feel; our feelings determine ... Remember These Words Don't let go of hope. Hope gives you the strength to keep going when you feel like giving up. Don't ever quit believing in yourself. As long as you believe you can, you will have a reason for trying. Don't let anyone hold your happiness in their hands; hold it in yours, so it will always be within you reach. Don't measure success or failure by material wealth, but by how you feel; our feelings determine ...

... single act of kindness that we do plants a little more kindness and happiness in this world. Every single moment of joy that we spread puts new seedlings of joy in the souls around us. Every single bit of love that we give plants another sapling of Heaven here on Earth. We may only think of ourselves as tiny twigs, but in our lifetimes we all can do more good than a forest of Redwoods. Don ’ t be afraid to try and change the ... so full of life. As they stretch towards the morning sun and slowly grow upward to the sky I can see the hundreds of glorious years that lie ahead of them. Soon they will be filling the air around them with life giving oxygen. Soon they will be blessing the world with their sweet smell and comforting shade. Soon they will be changing the world for the better just by being in it. What most of us don ’ t realize is that we can ...

... s promised to come back for us. We, more than all others, have the greatest reason to bubble over with this most joyous anticipation. It is because of the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus ’ that we have been given yet another wonderful gift from the hand of God Himself. That gift is hope.-Glenn A. Hascall-[ by: Glenn A. Hascall Copyright 2004 (cmi @prairieweb.com)-submitted by Glenn Hascall] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net ... until then, I will rejoice in what I do not possess because I have something that will carry me in confidence until that moment arrives. What will carry me is the belief that the Father has fully paid my sin debt which gives me the freedom to love and follow where He leads. I don ’ t need to see it or hold it in my hands to believe that it is real. Some say seeing is believing-but for me it ’ s the ...

... or improved a marriage. Almost all of our unhappiness is the result of comparing ourselves to others. Sign above an office clock:" This clock will never be stolen; too many employees are watching it" Every day we are given stones. What do we build with them? A bridge, or a wall? You wouldn't be worried about what people think of you if you knew how seldom they actually do. Our character is what we do when we think no ... achieve if you don't mind who gets the credit. Only GOD is in a position to look down on anyone. No matter how hard you hug your money, it never hugs back. No one is guaranteed happiness. Life just gives each person time and space. It's up to us to fill it with joy. Your religion is what you do when the sermon is over. Critism never built a house, wrote a play, composed a song, painted a picture ...

... . We laugh at that fisherman who didn't figure out that all he needed was a bigger frying pan; yet how ready are we to increase the size of our faith? Whether it's a problem or a possibility, God will never give you anything bigger than you can handle. That means we can confidently walk into anything God brings our way [Author Unknown-from 'Andychaps_the-funnies ' (Andychap @aol.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ... fish you catch ?" he asked. The inexperienced fisherman replied," I only have a small frying pan" Sometimes, like that fisherman, we throw back the big plans, big dreams, big jobs, big opportunities that God gives us. Our faith is too small. We laugh at that fisherman who didn't figure out that all he needed was a bigger frying pan; yet how ready are we to increase the size of our faith? Whether it's a problem or ...

... written by Civilla Durfee Martin. Not much is known about the hymn writer. She lived between 1866 and 1948, writing the hymn in 1904. The inspiration for the words may have come from 1 Peter 5: 7:" Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you" (NLT). The opening lines read: Be not dismayed whate'er betide, God will take care of you; Beneath His wings of love abide ... his stores continued to do well, Penney had been adding outside interests, and these were proving to be extremely costly. In order to finance these interests, Penney borrowed heavily. In addition, Penney was becoming a major philanthropist, giving generously to organizations and individuals. The Depression prompted banks to request repayment of his loans sooner than anticipated. Suddenly cash flow was tight, and Penney was finding it difficult to meet payment schedules. Constant and unrelenting worry began to take a ...

... A to B ," Spock explained to the technician standing nearby. Slowly McCoy materialized and took solid form." Thank God ," McCoy uttered as he shakily but safely stepped off the transporter platform." I don't know why you are giving credit to some deity, it was me cross circuiting from A to B that saved you ," Spock replied. Thus the eternal battle between the seen and the unseen. Between absolute logic and absolute faith. Between what can be measured and ... that wisdom and proper training instructs you to do and do it with all diligence. When we have done all that we know to do and all that we can do, it usually isn't cross circuiting to B that saves us and gives us the strength and the grace to pull things together. There is another at the controls. Thank God!~A MountainWings Original~[ Author Unknown-from 'MountainWings ' (wings @mountainwings.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved ...

... ate at McDonald's for fuel but found nourishment for his soul in the Bible. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. John 6: 33-35 [by Mike Nappa & ... " Twenty years later this skinny guy with a giant appetite still remembers how he ate at McDonald's for fuel but found nourishment for his soul in the Bible. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth ...

... 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 ... , the cats, and the other dogs. She wolfs down her breakfast with gusto before tearing down the hallway in search of new adventures. She says," Good Morning" by taking a running leap up on the couch and giving anyone sitting there a shower of kisses. While she does all this I watch with awe, drink my orange juice, eat my oatmeal, and dream of going back to bed. I have often wondered how she has so much energy ...

... him I have no mamma and I have no papa, so I don't have any place to stay. Then Jesus told me I could stay with him. But I told him I couldn't, because I didn't have a gift to give him like everybody else did." But I wanted to stay with Jesus so much, so I thought about what I had that maybe I could use for a gift. I thought maybe if I kept him warm, that would be ... sat in amazement as they listened. Some sat on the edges of their stools, trying to grasp every word. Completing the story, we gave the children three small pieces of cardboard to make a crude manger. Each child was given a small paper square, cut from yellow napkins I had brought with me. No colored paper was available in the city. Following instructions, the children tore the paper and carefully laid strips in the manger for straw. Small squares of ...

... Mom's Tip #145: When you retire, feel free to spend their inheritance. Mom's Tip #146: Hold their hands during vaccinations. Mom's Tip #147: Look encouraging at the dentist. Mom's Tip #148: Don't give your son a crew cut. Mom's Tip #149:" Bambi" is too scary for five-year olds. Mom's Tip #150: Froot Loops are NOT a balanced meal. Mom's Tip #151: Yes, they need all sixty-four ... 015: Lock up the good china. Mom's Tip #016: Tickle. Mom's Tip #017: Be a good sport. Mom's Tip #018: Be a good friend. Mom's Tip #019: Smile when your mother-in-law gives you advice. Mom's Tip #020: ALL mothers are working mothers. Mom's Tip #021: Ultimatums don't work. Mom's Tip #022: Bribes work. Mom's Tip #023: Hysteria will get you nowhere. Mom's Tip # ...

... home their laundry. Courage. Grace doesn't count unless it's under pressure. Many geniuses were late bloomers. When you retire, feel free to spend their inheritance. Hold their hands during vaccinations. Look encouraging at the dentist. Don't give your son a crew cut." Bambi" is too scary for five-year olds. Froot Loops are NOT a balanced meal. Yes, they need all sixty-four Crayolas. No, they can't have a pony. Chicken soup couldn't hurt. ... you don't know, say so. Let grandma spoil them. Let them stay up just a little bit longer. Lock up the good china. Tickle. Be a good sport. Be a good friend. Smile when your mother-in-law gives you advice. ALL mothers are working mothers. Ultimatums don't work. Bribes work. Hysteria will get you nowhere. Their first summer at camp is murder. Let them lick the spoon. Learn lots of lullabies. Breastfeeding in public goes ...

... The Blood Drive I gave blood again the other day. It was such a delightful experience. I arrived early to beat the crowds but found that several other early birds had gotten there even before me. We all smiled about it and waited patiently while the Red Cross finished setting up the equipment in the basement of the local church where the blood drive was being held. Even though we weren ’ t getting paid and had to give up part of our afternoon we were all still happy to be there. There was a spirit of joy, caring, and community among us all. The donors, Red Cross workers, and local volunteers all felt it. We shared stories, talked about our families, and feasted on the delicious food that the volunteers had brought in. We joked and laughed and enjoyed just being together for awhile. We felt the peace that came from doing good, saving lives, and making the world a better ...

... of us is special. Don't set your goals by what others deem important. Only you know what is best for you. Don't take for granted the things closest to your heart; cling to them as you would your life, for without them life is meaningless. Don't let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past or for the future. By living your life ONE DAY AT A TIME you will live all the days of your life. Don't give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is really over. until the moment you stop trying. Don't be afraid to admit that you are less than perfect; it is this fragile thread that binds us to each other. Don't be afraid to encounter risks, It's by taking chances we learn how to be brave. Don't shut LOVE out of your life by saying it's impossible to find. The quickest way to receive LOVE is to give LOVE, the fastest ...

... A woman's touch can cure any ailment. They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart. A woman can make a romantic evening unforgettable. Women come in all sizes, in all colors and shapes. They live in homes, apartments and cabins. They drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you. The heart of a woman is what makes the world spin! Women do more than just give birth. They bring joy and hope. They give compassion and ideals. They give moral support to their family and friends. And all they want back is a hug, a smile and for you to do the same to people you come in contact with. Women have a lot to say and a lot to give. This is a note of appreciation to some wonderful women. [Author Unknown-from 'Sermon Fodder ' (Keith Todd)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All ...

... is special. Don't set your goals by what other people deem important. Only you know what is best for you. Don't take for granted the things closest to your heart. Cling to them as you would your life, for without them, life is meaningless. Don't let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past or for the future. By living your life one day at a time, you live ALL the days of your life. Don't give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying. Don't be afraid to admit that you are less than perfect. It is this fragile thread that binds us together. Don't be afraid to encounter risks It is by taking chances that we learn how to be brave. Don't shut love out of your life by saying it's impossible to find. The quickest way to receive love is to give; the fastest way to lose ...

... Better To Give Than To Receive A young man, a student in one of our universities, was one day taking a walk with a professor, who was commonly called the student's friend, from his kindness to those who waited on his instructions. As they went along, they saw lying in the path a pair of old shoes, which they supposed to belong to a poor man who was employed in a field close by, and who had nearly finished his day's work. The student turned to the professor, saying:" Let us play the man a trick: we will hide his shoes, and conceal ourselves behind those bushes, and wait to see his perplexity when he cannot find them"" My young friend ," answered the professor," we should never amuse ourselves at the expense of the poor. But you are rich, and may give yourself a much greater pleasure by means of this poor man. Put a coin ...

... become so rust-eaten and unsafe that repairing it actually costs more than buying a new one. A lawn can become so weed-infested that the most logical solution is to spray herbicide on everything, killing both weeds and grass, and start over next spring. Most things in this life can become so run-down that repairing them is actually more expensive and more time-consuming than just throwing them away and buying a new one. Most things. But not human beings. When you and I give up on people, God is still willing to give them another chance. When we write people off as" unchangeable ," God says" No problem, I've handled worse before" When we give up on ourselves, concluding that we are too bad to ever change, God says" Wait a minute. I made you and I still see what you can become. You can ’ t change yourself, but I can change you if you will let me" God is ...

... hugs brighten my days and uplift my soul. I have been blessed a million times over by the love and joy she so freely shares with me. My two sons ' hugs always bring happiness to my heart as well. It makes me feel good to know that they have learned two of the most important things in life: how to choose love and how to spread joy. Remember then that every loving act you do, smile you share, and hug you give teaches all those around you as well. The lessons they share are priceless. Little by little, time after time, and year by year they teach the minds, hearts, and souls of all you touch. They spread God's love and life's joy everywhere. They show all who are watching how to love, how to give, and how to live. I hope that someone was watching when my son gave out his own lesson in hugging. A single hug can ...

... Message From A Mom To Her Child. I gave you life, but cannot live it for you. I can give you directions, but I cannot be there to lead you. I can take you to church, but I cannot make you believe. I can buy you beautiful clothes, but I cannot make you beautiful inside. I can give you love, but I cannot force it upon you. I can teach you to share, but I cannot make you unselfish. I can teach you respect, but I cannot force you to show honor. I can advise you about friends, but cannot choose them for you. I can advise you about sex, but I cannot keep you pure. I can tell you about alcohol & drugs, but I cannot say" no" for you. I can tell you about lofty goals, but I cannot achieve them for you. I can teach you about kindness, but I ...

... can be perky and ambitious one day while the next day I need toothpicks to hold my eyes open, and I'm worn out just from dialing long distance. All this got me so upset recently that I decided to do something about it. So I started complaining. That not only didn't help the situation, but focusing on the negative made me feel even more miserable. Then I found this passage in the Bible about weariness. Isaiah 40: 29 says that God gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. It explains that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength, run without growing weary, and soar on wings like eagles. Hmmm. I don't feel strong or powerful. I certainly don't soar, and I can't remember when I ran last. Some days it takes all the energy I can muster just to move from lying to a sitting position. So what gives? Where's all this power that ...

... , but I needed help. I reached in my wallet and gave him not only enough for bus fare, but enough to get a warm meal and shelter for the day. Those three little words still ring true. No matter how much you have, no matter how much you have accomplished, you need help too. No matter how little you have, no matter how loaded you are with problems, even without money or a place to sleep, you can give help. Even if it's just a compliment, you can give that. You never know when you may see someone that appears to have it all. They are waiting on you to give them what they don't have. A different perspective on life, a glimpse at something beautiful, a respite from daily chaos, that only you through a torn world can see. Maybe the man was just a homeless stranger wandering the streets. Maybe he was more than that. Maybe ...

... No, it means don't boil a calf in it's mother's milk. Moses: Oh, I get it. We should have a separate set of dishes for dairy and meat products. God: No, it means don't boil a calf in it's mother's milk. Moses: Oh, I see. It means we should wait an appropriate amount of time after eating flesh before we can intake of milk or any dairy product. But fish is o.k. since it doesn't give milk. God: No, it means don't boil a calf in it's mother's milk. Moses: What about chicken? it doesn't give milk but it sort of tastes like the flesh of a milk producing beast? God: MOSES! IT MEANS DON'T BOIL A CALF IN IT'S MOTHER'S MILK! Moses: OK I think I got it all now. We should have a separate set of cooking and eating utensils for meat and dairy products. After partaking of meat we should ...

... the Good News. If you trust in God and ask for his guidance, the Holy Spirit will say the right words for you." When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say" (Luke 12: 11-12 NIV) If someone comes to you and asks about your faith, ask God to give you the right words to say. Then say them without hesitation." But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1: 8 NIV) Ask God right now to give you the power of effective witnessing so that you will be able to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to others. PRAYER: O Lord ...

... How do we silence the voice of insignificance that screams in our heart when life is tough and doubt colors each breath? That's where the Psalms can come to the rescue. While we may intellectually accept the proclamations of Scripture that we are important to God, we often need to experience this truth. The Psalms are a collection of Spirit-inspired prayers, praises, complaints, and cries for help. They cover the gamut of human emotions. Most importantly of all, they give us words to let our current emotional and physical conditions find articulation before God and with 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 ...

... Learn From. Learn from a candle To give light in darkness Learn from the birds To sing and praise at all times Learn from the ants To work and not to be lazy Learn from a child To trust and be happy Learn from a rose To be beautiful even amidst thorns Learn from the mountain To stand strong against the storms Learn from a caterpillar To become a butterfly after the struggle Learn from the stars To shine, smile and twinkle Learn from the fishes To swim against the stormy water Learn from the clay To yield to the Potter Learn from the trees To give shelter to the weary Learn from Jesus To give the Father all the GLORY !!!~Caroline Naoroji~[ by: Caroline Naoroji, Copyright 2007 (cnaoroji @hotmail.com)-submitted by: Caroline Naoroji] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... believe... that we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change. I believe... that no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that. I believe... that true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love. I believe... that you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life. I believe... that it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be. I believe... that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them. I believe... that you can keep going long after you can't. I believe... that we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel. I believe. ...

... in my life. Old age is like a bank account. you withdraw from what you've put in. So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank account of memories Thank you for your part in filling my Memory bank. I'm still making deposits._Remember the five simple rules to be happy: 1. Free your heart from hatred. 2. Free your mind from worries. 3. Live simply. 4. Give more. 5. Expect less. No one can go back and make a brand new start. Anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending. God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way. Disappointments are like road bumps, they slow you down a bit but you enjoy the smooth road afterwards. Don't stay on the ...

... 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 all the chance to be one with Him and to help Him bring this warmth to the world. It is up to us, however. We can wrap ourselves and others in the warm coat of God ’ s love and joy or we ...

... .. that money doesn't buy class. I've learned.... that it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular. I've learned.... that once a relationship is over, if you experienced more smiles than tears, then it wasn't a waste of time. I've learned.... that under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved. I've learned.... never to humiliate another person. Always give him an honorable way to back down or out of something and still save face. I've learned.... that the Lord didn't do it all in one day. What makes me think I can? I've learned.... that if you are still talking about what you did yesterday, you haven't done much today. I've learned.... that to ignore the facts does not change the facts. I've learned.... that when you ...

... Do not set your goals by what other people deem important. Only you know what is best for you. Do not take for granted the things closest to your heart. Cling to them as you would your life, for without them, life is meaningless. Do not let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past nor for the future. By living your life one day at a time, you live all the days of your life Do not give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying. It is a fragile thread that binds us to each other. Do not be afraid to encounter risks. It is by taking chances that we learn how to be brave. Do not shut love out of your life by saying it is impossible to find. The quickest way to receive love is to give love; The fastest way to lose love is to hold it ...

... . Their genuine ardor for tinkering with toilets, changing oil and assembling gas grills-jobs any intelligent woman can do but would be nuts to volunteer for. They never care what their horoscope, their mother-in-law, nor the neighbors say. They rarely lie about their age, their weight, or their clothing size. How awestruck they are in the face of a homemade cookie. How great their hands look holding ours. Their face is a treasure to behold when they give us a present they picked out. Their ignorance is usually amusing. They give great hugs, (and always melt our hearts when a sweet" I love you honey ," is added) Though they often try to hide it, they're very tenderhearted and caring. They have an uncanny ability to look deeply into our eyes and connect with our heart, even when we don't want them to. They don't care whether colors match, but are willing to be concerned if we ...

... needle into an exceptionally small hole at the base of his skull and pass it up to the level of the ganglion. This process requires a skill in which I had to develop a grat deal of proficiency during my days as a medical student. On that particular day, however, no matter what I did, I could not get the needle into the hole. I had worked at this for nearly two hours before it occured to me that perhaps I should just give up. Just before quitting, I finally prayed:" Lord I cannot get the needle in. There is no way I can do it. I am going to take this needle and push it in one more time. I want You to guide it into the hole, because I cannot seem to do it" I took the needle, pushed it, and went right through the hole as if it had a mind of its own. A feeling of deep gratitude ...

... motives; Be kind anyway. If you are successful, You will win some false friends and some true enemies; Succeed anyway. If you are honest and frank, People may cheat you; Be honest and frank anyway. What you spend years building, Someone could destroy overnight; Build anyway. If you find serenity and happiness, They may be jealous; Be happy anyway. The good you do today, People will often forget tomorrow; Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have, And it may never be enough; Give the world the best you've got anyway. You see, in the final analysis, It is between you and God; It never was between you and them anyway. Be Blessed, Mother Theresa [by Mother Theresa-from 'E-Mail Ministry '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... , pumped up, picked up, or pepped up. I am a soldier. No one has to call me, remind me, write me, visit me, entice me, or lure me. I am a soldier. I am not a wimp. I am in place, saluting my King, Obeying His orders, praising His name, and building His Kingdom! No one has to send me flowers, gifts, food, cards, candy, or give me handouts. I do not need to be cuddled, cradled, cared for, or catered to. I am committed. I cannot have my feelings hurt bad enough to turn me around. I cannot be discouraged enough to turn me aside. I cannot lose enough to cause me to quit. When Jesus called me into this Army, I had nothing. If I end up with nothing, I will still come out even. I will win. My God will ...

... war is part of an important job in his life (which is making the world better for his children than it has been for him). Fathers grow older faster than other people, because they, in other wars, have to stand at the airport and wave goodbye to the uniform that climbs on board the plane. And, while mothers cry where it shows, fathers stand and beam. outside. as they endure the pain inside. Fathers are men who give daughters away to other men who aren't nearly good enough, so that they can have children that are smarter than anybody's. Fathers fight dragons almost daily. They hurry away from the breakfast table off to the arena, which is sometimes called an office or a workshop. There they tackle the dragon with three heads: Weariness, Works, and Monotony. And they never quite win the fight, but they never give up. Knights in shining armor; fathers in shiny trousers ...

... see where you are going !" I said." Yes, but I can't move ," he relied." I feel paralyzed"" Are you ?"" Am I what ?"" Are you really paralyzed ?" He thought for moment while staring at me as if I were speaking another language." Yes !" he said with much conviction." I believe I am"" Then I guess you are ," I confirmed." Wait, it's not like you to give up on me like that ," he said with a slight smile." Oh, I'll never give up on you. But you told me exactly what was wrong"" I'm paralyzed? I can't move ?"" No, you're not. But you believe you are. The key word there is" believe" You said," I believe I am"" Oh, we've been down this road before, Bob. This same old familiar .if you believe it, ...

... Spit It Out My daughter Beth has always been one of the wisest people that I have ever known. Even as a baby this wisdom was apparent. I can remember when I first tried to get her to eat green beans from a baby food jar. With the first spoonful she made a terrible face. When I tried to give her a second spoonful she spit it out instantly and it ran down her bib turning it an ugly shade of green. I then foolishly tried to give her a third spoonful. This one she spit out with such force that it landed on both my face and my shirt. When Beth saw what she had done she let out a delighted giggle and I had to smile myself as I wiped off my face. Later wondering how bad those green beans actually were I took a bite of them myself. Never in my entire life had anything tasted quite so nasty as they did. Unlike that wise baby ...

... face, When inside you feel like dying, For the sake of supporting others,. means strength. Stopping at nothing, And doing what's in your heart, You know is right,. means determination. Doing more than is expected, To make another's life a little more bearable, Without uttering a single complaint,. means compassion. Helping a friend in need, No matter the time or effort, To the best of your ability,. means loyalty. Giving more than you have, And expecting nothing, But nothing in return,. means selflessness. Holding your head high, And being the best you know you can be, When life seems to fall apart at your feet, Facing each difficulty with the confidence, That time will bring you better tomorrows, And never giving up,. means confidence. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... lives. Life is also catching snowflakes on your tongue, smelling the flowers in the Spring, and watching the sunset in the evening. Life is also riding a bike, swimming in the ocean, and walking in the woods. Life is also singing a joyous song, reading a good book, and enjoying a delicious meal. Life is also laughing through your pain, learning from your problems, and loving through all the difficulties you may face. Life is also giving your children a big hug, sharing a warm smile with a stranger, and saying a kind compliment to a friend. Life is also helping a person in need, holding the hand of a scared and lonely soul, and giving your warmth and kindness to a hurting heart. Life is also caring for your family, serving your community, and making the world a better place. Life is also spreading your joy, shining your light, and sharing your love. Life ...

... May You Always Feel Loved May you find serenity and tranquility in a world you may not always understand. May the pain you have known and the conflict you have experienced give you the strength to walk through life facing each new situation with optimism and courage. Always know that there are those whose love and understanding will always be there, even when you feel most alone. May you discover enough goodness in others to believe in a world of peace May a kind word, a reassuring touch, a warm smile be yours every day of your life, and may you give these gifts as well as receive them. Remember the sunshine when the storm seems unending. Teach love to those who know hate, and let that love embrace you as you go into the world. May the teaching of those you admire become part of you, so that you may call upon them. Remember, those whose lives you have touched and who have touched ...

... a store but was drenched before I got three feet. Lightening flashes could be seen over the hills and I wondered if the storm would ever end. As I drove back home, though, the clouds parted and the sunshine reappeared. I arrived home soaked but safe and looked up to see the most glorious rainbow bridging the sky. I stopped in my dripping clothes to take in the sight and store it safely in the memories of my soul. Life too can give us some crazy weather at times. Clear days can suddenly turn stormy in an instant. Sunny skies and gentle breezes can give way to pounding rains and lightening for no reason. Problems, troubles, and frustrations can soak you to the skin and you can find yourself wondering if the storm will ever end. When this happens take heart in knowing that God loves you through every type of weather and that you have enough sunlight in your soul to ride out any storm that ...

... Earth. It ’ s glorious, golden beams were joyfully waking the world. Seeing this I walked out on my front porch to take a break from doing and spend some time living. The sky was the purest blue imaginable. The air was so fresh and cool that I breathed in deeply with delight. I listened to the birds singing happily in the nearby trees as they greeted the morning. I then stood for awhile paying attention to this wonderful world God has given us. Before I went back inside I told God just how much I loved Him and thanked Him again for my life. Life is so full of beauty, wonder, and delight. Life is so full of kindness, peace, and happiness. Life is so full of love and joy. God has given us a world overflowing with good things for us to rejoice in. It is up to us, however, to pay attention to them. It is up ...

... and fingers until Christmas Day. Looking back now I can ’ t even remember what I got that year, but I will always remember that reassuring moment in my Mother ’ s arms. The gift of love she gave me then remains in my heart to this day. It is the gifts of love that are the greatest gifts of all. Jesus ’ entire life was a gift of love. As we celebrate His birthday this year then let us all seek to give the gifts of love as well. The gentle hugs, the caring looks, the joyful smiles, and the warm words of love we give will mean more than anything we buy in a store. The time we share, laughter we spread, and kindness we shower on others will live on in their hearts forever. Leo Buscaglia once said that," Life is God ’ s gift to you and how you live it is your gift to God" May your gift ...

... , doing nothing." This is the Acknowledging Section ," St. Peter told the soul." How is it that, there is no work here ?"" That's the sad thing ," St. Peter answered." After the people received the blessings they asked for, very few send their acknowledgments"." How does one acknowledge God's blessing ?"" Simple ," St. Peter answered." Just say, "'Thank you, Lord" Thank you Lord, for giving me the chance to share this message with others and also, for giving me so many wonderful people to share this with. If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead 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 world's wealthy. If you ...

... to take it over:" I will send my terror ahead of you and throw into confusion every nation you encounter. I will make all your enemies turn their backs and run. I will send the hornet ahead of you to drive the Hivites, Canaanites, and Hittites out of your way" (Exodus 23: 27-28, NIV) In other words, even though they would fight battles along the way, God would GUARANTEE them victory. And then, God gives them this explanation for why it would take so long:" But I will not drive them out in a single year, because the land would become desolate and the wild animals too numerous for you. Little by little I will drive them out before you until you have increased enough to take possession of the land" (v. 29-30) In other words, it was for their own good that God gave them the land gradually. God knew just how much they ...

... ? It's taken me a while to figure it out and I don't have all the answers. But, 'self allowance ' is very important. I'm not advocating DWELLING in your problems. I'm suggesting that you allow yourself to FEEL. The world isn't always sunshine and smiles and if you try to force yourself into that very high, unrealistic expectation, you'll eventually POP! I've done it, so I know. You've got 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 ...

... it takes years to build up trust, and only seconds to destroy it. I've learned-that it's not what you have in your life, but who you have in your life that counts. I've learned-that you can get by on charm for about fifteen minutes. After that, you'd better know something. I've learned-that you shouldn't compare yourself to the best others can do. I've learned-that you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life. I've learned-that it's taken me a long time to become the person I want to be. I've learned-that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them. I've learned-that you can keep going long after you think you can't. I've learned-that we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel. I've learned-that either you control your attitude ...

... When You've Been" Throwed" It is well said:" Strength and courage aren't always measured in medals and victories. They are measured in the struggles we overcome. The strongest people aren't always the people who win but the people who don't give up when they lose" It's been said that Andrew Jackson's boyhood friends just couldn't understand how he became a famous general and then the President of the United States. They knew of others who had greater talent but who never succeeded. One of Jackson's friends commented," Why, Jim Brown, who lived right down the pike from Jackson, was not only smarter, but he could throw Andy three times out of four in a wrestling match. But look where Andy is now" Another friend responded," How did there happen to be a fourth time? Don't they usually say three times and out ?"" Sure, they were supposed to, but not Andy. He would never admit ...

... The Christmas Ten Commandments Thou shalt give thy heart to Christ. Let Him be at the top of thy Christmas shopping list. Thou shalt prepare thy soul for Christmas. Spend not so much on gifts that thy soul is forgotten. Thou shalt not let Santa Claus replace Christ, thus robbing the day of its spiritual reality. Thou shalt not burden the shop girl, the mailman, and the merchant with complaints and demands. Thou shalt give thyself with thy gift. This will increase its value a hundred fold, and he who receiveth it shall treasure it forever. Thou shalt not value gifts received by their cost. Even the least expensive may signify love, and that is more priceless than silver and gold. Thou shalt not neglect the needy. Share thy blessings with many who will go hungry and cold unless thou are generous. Thou shalt not neglect thy church. Its services highlight the true meaning of the season. Thou shalt be ...

... The Christmas Rose I love roses .and I'm not particular" just one red rose will do !" -any time of the year! This Christmas we celebrate the giving of a rose more beautiful than words can describe. God's gift to the world: the Rose of Sharon! His fragrance fills our heart and especially during this season of the year, His warm, loving presence seems to even flood our world. People are kinder, gentler, more loving, more friendly, more giving than at any other time of the year. People are lonely too -more than at any other time of the year. I heard a story that touched my heart and I hope will touch yours. It's about an elderly lady named Rose. She lives alone -somewhere in our world -and apparently has no family .but there's a faithful Avon lady who calls on her regularly. The Avon lady relates, with sadness, how Rose selected and purchased an Avon item, then ...

... go out. I know that it is just my Mom ’ s wonderful way of letting me know that she loves me, that she is looking out for me, and that she along with so many others are helping me as I travel down the road of my life. It is so good to know that my Mom is still with me in my heart, mind, and soul. It is so blissful to feel her presence as I do my best to give love, spread joy, and make this world a better place. It is so wonderful to realize that a thousand angels are cheering me on as I strive to do what God wants me to do and go where God wants me to go. It is so peaceful knowing that this life I am living is a part of something far greater than myself. As you go down the road of your life then always remember that you are not alone. God and His angels ...

... cannot say WHO ART IN HEAVEN if I am laying up no treasure there. I cannot say HALLOWED BE THY NAME if I am not striving for holiness. I cannot say THY KINGDOM COME if I am not doing all in my power to hasten that wonderful event. I cannot say THY WILL BE DONE if I am disobedient to His word. I cannot say ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN if I will not serve Him here and now. I cannot say GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD if I 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. ...

... Boy, those are the days when I feel" poor" in spirit-rating myself as insignificant. Fortunately there is another side to what Jesus had to say here." .theirs is the kingdom of heaven" Sounds pretty good to me! The NIV Study Bible commentary states that," The kingdom is not something earned. It is a gift more than recompense" This, of course, refers to salvation and the gift which we cannot earn, but is given to us through Christ Jesus. But, lets look at the daily application of this part of the verse. Being a SAHM is a challenging, tiring, often thankless job. It takes a long time to" hit your stride" as a SAHM-to get used to not having that tangible reward you used to get-be it a paycheck, a pat on the back, a satisfied customer. But if we look closely, we can see rewards, on ...

... 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 and God Will Give you the thread. When God Says" no ", it's because He Has something better in store for you. The task ahead of us is never as great as The Power behind us. Prayer: don't bother to give God instructions, just report for duty. It's my business to do God's Business, and it's His Business to take care of my business. Serenity is not freedom from the storm, but peace amid the storm. How come you're always running around looking ...

... . Quite frankly, I am not that old yet. Besides I know people a lot older than me who are a lot grouchier. I also know people a lot younger than me who are already way more mellow than I will ever be. Maybe it is that I just don ’ t have as much room for those things inside me anymore. When life squeezes you what is on the inside comes out. If you are full of sour grapes then you will give the world vinegar. If you are full of good fruits then you will give the world orange juice. Maybe my good fruits are finally ripening while my sour grapes are dying on the vine. 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 ...

... it through our lives, we stagnate in our ways. We never get those old habits out of our lives, we simply let them soak with us, and that just makes for dirty water. So what is the agitator in our spiritual lives? The Holy Spirit, that thing which brings the voice of Jesus up in our hearts and motivates us to do what we should is our agitator. The part of us that tells us to get out and volunteer and give of ourselves, that part that says to abstain from our sinful past, that part that reminds us to praise God everyday for His goodness. That is the Holy Spirit. God's voice in our hearts, our whispering conscience that stirs our souls and makes us want to obey Him, to do works for him, to love our brothers, to tithe and give our all for Jesus name sake. Faith and hope live in us and unless we allow it to work through ...

... much to me. I prided myself in believing that I would never let myself get attached to possessions, for things of the spirit were all that truly mattered. But these particular" things" pulled within. Those" worthless" coins and memorabilia from my childhood-what was that about? The furniture we inherited or grew up with-why did it call out to me so? Or that rug we bought together? Or the many items that decorated our house given to us by friends and family over the years? The answer, of course, is that these things represented our love as a couple and a family. They also signified all of those people over the years we have loved and who loved us. And each had stories to tell. They told of all we'd been through together and where we were headed. They spoke in the voices of generations past-parents and grandparents. We could not take the piano, but ...

... Some people are like fragrant flowers. They come into our lives ever so briefly and leave behind a scent that remains embedded in our being. They brighten your day by just having had contact with them even if for a moment. If kindness would have scent it would remind you of them. Like when I smell pine, all the best Christmas memories rush through my mind. When I smell roses I think of romantic, moon filled evenings. Some people, having given so much to you, remain a part of who you are forever. You cannot possibly go through a day without thinking about them. Their beautiful spirit gently nudges your heart each time you hear their name. The very thought of them stirs within your soul like the sweet fragrance of a thousand roses. Loved ones who have passed on, having given their lives to you, having stayed in bloom through a life time of eternal Spring, are like these Lilacs. Although ...

... Happy Moments I took my sons out for a walk at a nearby lake the other day. The weather was perfect for it. The sky was clear, the temperature was warm, the sun was dancing off the waves, and flowers were blooming along the walk path surrounding the water. Couples both young and old were walking along the path enjoying all of this God given beauty. Dozens of people were fishing peacefully along the banks and in boats. Children were running and playing with their dogs. Families were setting up picnic dinners for later. Some people were just sitting in the grass looking blissfully out on the water. I even saw one young woman praying with a joyful smile on her face as she sat under a tree. Never had I seen so many people spending their time so well. The day after the great teacher and writer Leo Buscaglia died a note was found in his typewriter. It simply said," Every moment ...

... Happy Camper? Not! Could someone please explain to me the philosophy of camping? And don't give me that" enjoying nature" malarkey because I can give you heat, sweat and bugs right back. I think I could win the argument without even resorting to the bathroom issue. My family and I have a nice home. We pay money for this nice home, and then we pay more to fill it with every convenience. Camping, as I see it, is leaving this nice home (while still paying for it) and leaving all my conveniences, to go to a place that has ZERO conveniences. Then you pay the campground for the lack of conveniences. Does this make sense to anyone? Awhile back, I reluctantly agreed to go camping with my family. I can't over-emphasize the word" reluctantly" You can still see the fingernail marks from my house (with all the conveniences) to the hot, bug-infested campground ...

... to see if we could assist. She, too, was waiting for help-to unlock her car. We invited her to wait inside our car, out of the Texas heat. We waited a little over an hour, when a young woman arrived at the car next to us. Carol asked her if she had lost a bracelet. The woman had not noticed it was missing but quickly described it. Tears welled in her eyes as she said that it had been given to her by her mother. The following day she was to travel to visit her mom, who is undergoing cancer treatment. Carol said," Now I know why I had the flat tire" We had to wait for her to claim her precious belonging. The woman's comment in gratitude was," God is good !" Soon after, help arrived for the woman with the locked car, and quickly she was on her way-but not before" God blessing us ...

... looked stunned and sat down. The priest pointed in the back to where the clergymen were standing and repeated," Get three chairs for the Protestants" The confused boy still stared back blankly. Exasperated, the priest said emphatically," Please! Get three chairs for the Protestants !" The dismayed acolyte stood before the congregation and announced," Ladies and gentlemen. This is the first time this has ever been done in a Catholic church, but let's all stand and give three cheers for the Protestants !" Perhaps it's time to give three cheers to those of another faith. And while we're at it, let's applaud those of other cultures and races, too! What a beautiful world it is when all are truly part of one glorious family! And after all, if God doesn't love variety, why is there so much of it?~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2008 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with ...

... gave him the pearl. The traveler started home thinking of his great fortune and all that he could buy with it, but while the pearl was heavy in his hands his heart was still heavy as well. After several days he returned again to the wise man ’ s hut. Placing the pearl in front of him the traveler said:" I no longer want this pearl, but I do want to know what you have inside of you that allowed you to give it to me without a second thought" Like that traveler I also have much to learn, but I still hope to one day live like that wise man. I hope to give without a second glance. I hope to share without a single thought of myself. I hope to make my own life a gift of love to everyone in this world. That I believe is how God wants us all to live. We were not just put here to follow the Golden ...

... Autumn Of Our Lives I love Autumn here in the mountains of West Virginia. The cool air and the hum of the heater in the morning soon gives way to the warm breezes flowing through the window fans in the afternoon. The delightful smell of dry leaves fills the air and in the evening I can sometimes catch glimpses of the deer feeding on the fallen apples from the apple tree in our backyard. The sound of happy children riding their bikes makes a sweet music for the ears as they play away the evening hours until darkness arrives. All of this wonderful joy takes place too under the brilliance of the mountains themselves. This time of the year 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 ...

... were blessed with sweetness as I slowed down for a school zone. The laughter of dozens of children filled the air as they ran and played on the playground. I heard several of them yelling with delight as they swung on the swing set. With each pass they flew higher and higher. It brought a smile to my lips, a warmth to my heart, and a flood of memories to my mind. I remembered being their age. Us boys would always give the girls a push and then jump in the empty swings next to them and try to catch up. With our legs pumping we would soon be soaring through the air. We laughed at the thrill of freedom, at the joy of flight, and at the feeling that at any moment we could zoom into the heavens. I remembered later being a young father and pushing my own children on the swings. Watching their happiness was a bit of Heaven itself. I remembered ...

... . As I looked through them too I noticed something very wonderful. It seemed that the happier the person was in the picture, the more the light shined from their eyes. I could see this pure, radiant, and loving light in picture after picture no matter how long ago it was taken. With every smiling face there were a pair of shining eyes sending their joy across the years and into my heart. It was then that I realized that God was giving me a glimpse through the window to the Heavenly soul in each person. This was who they really were. Each photo was of a Child of God: full of love, full of joy, and full of light. I knew too that even though those pictures would one day fade that those souls would shine on forever. I am still thanking God for that little glimpse of Heaven. I am keeping it close to my heart, mind, and soul. I ...

... them they're pushing. Take nothing for granted Watch water flow, the corn grow, the leaves blow, your neighbors mow. Allow yourself time to be lazy and unproductive Rest isn't a luxury, it's a necessity. Listen to the wind blow It carries a message of yesterday and tomorrow And now Now counts. Rest on your laurels They bring comfort whatever their size, age or condition. Talk slower. Talk less. Don't talk. Communication isn't measured by words. Give yourself permission to be late sometimes Life is for living, not scheduling. Listen to the song of a bird The complete song. Music and nature are gifts, but only if you are willing to receive them. Slow down. God is still in heaven You are not responsible for doing it all .yourself. right now. Remember a happy, peaceful time in your past Rest there. Each moment has a richness that takes a lifetime to savor. Quit planning how you're ...

... that it's true," You do know that God is smiling down on you ?" Perhaps that explains it, my smiling you see. It is a reflection of God's love for me. So, now I must ask you how do you want to be remembered? To be remembered kindly .do something for someone who needs a gentle touch. To be remembered as honest .live with such integrity that no one would ever question your intentions. To be remembered as generous .be giving to all. To be remembered as compassionate .don't just say you care, show it. To be remembered as giving .give before you know there is a need. To be remembered as a" person of faith" .be faithful in all your actions. To be remembered as a good worker .remove from your vocabulary the words," It's not my job" To be remembered as a good parent .teach by example. To be remembered as a good spouse .be a good listener ...

... Fathers ' Day FATHERS ' DAY HISTORY Sonora Dodd, of Washington, first had the idea of a" father's day" She thought of the idea for Father's Day while listening to a Mother's Day sermon in 1909. Sonora wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart. Smart, who was a Civil War veteran, was widowed when his wife died while giving birth to their sixth child. Mr. Smart was left to raise the newborn and his other five children by himself on a rural farm in eastern Washington state. After Sonora became an adult she realized the selflessness her father had shown in raising his children as a single parent. It was her father that made all the parental sacrifices and was, in the eyes of his daughter, a courageous, selfless, and loving man. Sonora's father was born in June, so she chose to hold the first Father's Day celebration in Spokane, Washington on the 19th of June ...

... The Value of a Smile A Smile is nature's best antidote for discouragement. It brings rest to the weary, Sunshine to those who are frowning, And hope to those who are hopeless and defeated. A Smile is so valuable that it can't be bought, Begged, borrowed, or taken away against your will. You have to be willing to give a Smile away, Before it can do anyone else any good. So, if someone is too tired or grumpy to flash you a Smile, Let him have one of yours anyway. Nobody needs a Smile as much, As the person who has none to give. Smile your smile for today. Pass it on to someone. Who needs some sunshine on a cloudy day. Remember, No matter how bad it seems at the time, It shall pass in a few moments, And. A Smile is simply a frown upside down. So, stand on your head and look ...

... ; we need time to take the pressure off and relax. Former baseball pitcher Dutch Leonard might have put it a little differently. He once said that the secret of great pitching is not speed or the ability to throw curves. It's the" change of pace" The average batter will soon learn to hit a pitcher who continually throws the same kind of pitch. But it's hard to hit against a pitcher who changes the pace of delivery. That change of pace gives a pitcher the edge over the best of batters. A change of pace likewise gives us an edge in life. Taking time to watch the clouds, enjoy a breeze, take a walk, read or just slow down is necessary if we are to be our best later. And a regular day of rest is as important as regular sleep. It's a way of taking the pressure off. To be your best, make sure you change your pace. It may just ...

... receipt from the same place mother and I had dined. An attached note said:" I paid this bill in advance. I was almost sure that I couldn't be there, but, never-the-less, I paid for two plates -one for you and the other for you wife. You will never know what that night meant to me. I love you" At that moment, I understood the importance of saying," I LOVE YOU" in time, and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve. Nothing in life is more important than God and your family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot always be put off to" some other time" [Author Unknown-from 'E-Mail Ministry '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Earthly and Heavenly Father Differences When my earthly father says," You are nothing" My Heavenly Father says," You are my beloved child" When my earthly father says," I'll give you the piano, if you learn how to play it" My Heavenly Father says," Use your talents wisely" When my earthly mother says," Just wait until your father gets home" My Heavenly Father says," Just wait until my Son takes you home" When my earthly father says," You will never amount to anything" My Heavenly Father says," You will always be something special to me" When my earthly father says," Go stand in the corner" My Heavenly Father says," Go into every corner of the world and tell about my Son" When my earthly father says," Clean up this mess" My Heavenly Father says," If your life is a mess, I will clean ...

... His soldiers went to investigate and found the young woman cut and bleeding from being knocked back and forth against the great bell. They brought her down, and, the story goes, Cromwell was so impressed with her willingness to suffer in this way on behalf of someone she loved that he dismissed the soldier saying," Curfew shall not ring tonight" That must be love, I thought! That was the kind of commitment I needed to make! I wanted to give my all. To tie myself to the bell for her. To die, if necessary, for her. To sacrifice myself on the altar of true love! I wanted her to know that I'd give it all up for her. But she never wanted me to die for her. Never! Clean the toilets, maybe, but never die. My commitment was to be shown in household chores! (I read that an exhaustive study showed that no woman ever shot ...

... this, it is essential that we fully understand and accept the awesome gift of mercy and grace He gave us through his son, Jesus Christ. We also must long to be 'just and good. We must use God's word as a template for loving, raising and disciplining our children. As it says is Deuteronomy 6: 5-8" love the Lord your God with all our heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up" It is our job as parents, SAHMs or not, to raise our children in God's way. I order to do that, we must immerse ourselves first in His word. We must use His word to temper our discipline, to ask forgiveness, to ...

... I can recuperate !" I wish I could tell you that Angels appeared out of nowhere to comfort me. Or that I was actually able to SEE God. But, no such thing. Do you want to know what happened next? I laid down and went to sleep! And I had the very best sleep I'd had since my nightmare had begun maybe six months ago! When I woke up in the morning I somehow realized the help that I'd asked God to give me. And I was able to just shrug my shoulders at the absence of my wife and my daughter, the pile of bills just sitting there waiting to be paid, and my son, calling for my attention! Somehow I knew these things would be" taken care of ," one way or another, in God's way and God's time! And that, my friend, is Faith! Addendum-1 Peter 5: 7" Give all your worries and cares to ...

... To Be A Weak Leader Ten sure-fire ways to become a weak leader: Weak leaders are blind to the current situation. They solve the wrong problems in the wrong way. Good leaders understand what is happening. They size up the situation, put themselves in the right position to respond, prepare, and then act at the proper time. Weak leaders discourage others. They find fault and blame. They criticize when things don't go right. Good leaders encourage. They give credit when things go well and take responsibility when they don't go well. Alabama football coach" Bear" Bryant was once asked how he inspired his players. He responded," Well, I'm just an old plow hand from Arkansas, but I've learned a few things about getting people to do what you want them to do. When things go wrong, I did it. When things go semi-good, we did it. And when things go good, you did it ...

... 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.... ...

... 00 AM with the baby in full cry. But he kept trying. He renamed his new, modified speech" Some Suggestions for Parents" and charged bravely on. They had two more children. The speech changed again. And again. Now it's called," Feeble Hints for Fellow Strugglers" and he begins with the question:" Does anyone here have a few words of wisdom ?" Parents through the ages can identify." Could someone, please, just give me the final answers to parenting ?" we ask." ALL of them? Could someone please tell me how to respond and what to do and what to say and when to say it and do it and tell me now ?" But, of course, we ask the impossible. Maybe this will help. I have saved it for years, and I'm convinced it was written by one who has been there. It is not the final answer to parenting, but cherish ...

... will control them. To learn that it only takes a few seconds to open profound wounds in persons we love, and that it takes many years to heal them. To learn to forgive by practicing forgiveness. To learn that there are persons that love them dearly, but simply do not know how to show their feelings. To learn that money can buy everything but happiness. To learn that while at times they may be entitled to be upset, that does not give them the right to upset those around them. To learn that great dreams do not require great wings, but only a compass to keep you on course, and in My will. To learn that true friends are scarce, he / she who has found one has found a true treasure. To learn that it is not always enough that they be forgiven by others, but that they forgive themselves. To learn that they are masters of what they keep to themselves and ...

... Time To Give Thanks-Time To Remember Others DEAR ABBY: A year ago, you printed a beautiful Thanksgiving prayer that I used as the grace before our meal. Unfortunately, I didn't save the clipping. Could you please run it again?-ELEANOR ALARCON, UNION, N.J. DEAR ELEANOR: With pleasure! O heavenly Father: We thank thee for food and remember the hungry. We thank thee for health and remember the sick. We thank thee for friends and remember the friendless. We thank thee for freedom and remember the enslaved. May these remembrances stir us to service, that thy gifts to us may be used for others. Amen. «:*´`³¤³´`*:»§«:*´`³¤³´`*:»§«:*´`³ ³´`*:»§«:*´`³¤³´`*:»§«:*´`³¤³´`*:» «:*´`³¤³´`*:»§«:*´`³¤³´`*:» Since today is Thanksgiving, take just a moment to reflect upon all of the things for which you are thankful. How's your health? Not so good? Well, thank God you've lived this long. A lot of people haven't. You're hurting? Thousands- ...

... heart, soul, and mind and he used it to point out every beautiful thing there was to see along the walk from a single flower blooming in a bush, to a nest of robins living in a tree, to the wonderful view that awaited us at the end. Then I only wanted to head back down the hill and play basketball. Now, though, I try to see the beautiful in everything just as he did. He showed me that God gives us all a wonderful walking stick called our thoughts and that we all can use it to help us travel joyously through this journey called life. Either that or we can beat ourselves over the head with it. The choice is ours. That retreat remains the most fun I ever had 30 years after the fact. I guess sometimes it just takes us a bit longer to get what people, life, and God are trying to teach us. I hope you use your ...

... classroom windows and the class was nearly over, she moved a few things aside on the edge of her desk and sat down there. With a gentle look of reflection on her face, she paused and said," Before class is over, I would like to share with all of you a thought that is unrelated to class, but which I feel is very important. Each of us is put here on earth to learn, share, love, appreciate and give of ourselves. None of us knows when this fantastic experience will end. It can be taken away at any moment. Perhaps this is God's way of telling us that we must make the most out of every single day" Her eyes beginning to water, she went on," So I would like you all to make me a promise. From now on, on your way to school, or on your way home, find something beautiful to notice. It doesn't ...

... of those years, Someone did far more than a normal person's share of the work. Whenever there was a job to do, a class to teach, or a meeting to attend, one name was on everyone's list," Let Someone Else do it" Whenever leadership was mentioned, this wonderful person was looked to for inspiration as well as results;" Someone Else can work with that group" It was common knowledge that Someone Else was among the most liberal givers in our church. Whenever there was a financial need, everyone just assumed Someone Else would make up the difference. Someone Else was a wonderful person; sometimes appearing superhuman. Were the truth known, everybody expected too much of Someone Else. Now Someone Else is gone! We wonder what we are going to do. Someone Else left a wonderful example to follow, but who is going to follow it? Who is going to do the things Someone Else did? When ...

... world around us. There's a very clear scientific window. And it does enable us to understand an awful lot about what's out there. There's another window; it's the window through which the wise men, the holy men, the masters of the different and great religions look as they try to understand the meaning in the world. My own preference is the window of the mystic" I may not reliably predict my future, but I ask myself if my future will give adequate attention to my spiritual life? I gaze at my world through the window of my mind, but I wonder, will I also gaze through the window of my soul? And will I nurture my soul along the way? I had better take good care of my future now-I'll be spending the rest of my life there.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2008 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages ...

... Take Time Take time to laugh It is the music of the soul. Take time to think It is the source of power. Take time to play It is the source of perpetual youth. Take time to read It is the fountain of wisdom. Take time to pray It is the greatest power on earth. Take time to be friendly It is the road to happiness. Take time to give It is too short a day to be selfish. Take time to work It is the price of success. Take time to love and be loved It is a God-given privilege. [Author Unknown-from 'E-Mail Ministry ' (www.emailministry.org)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... asleep. I wondered if the exercise would build the same kinds of memories for my kids some day as it did for Paula (my sister) and I. I smiled as I drove and figured that was about that. But then I couldn't seem to get it out of my mind. I started to realize that the sign taught me much more than a fun way to pass time in a car. It taught me some thing about human nature, sharing and giving, and the power of a smile and a thank you. Have you ever noticed how much better you feel when you are smiling? Scientists can tell us about real changes in our body chemistry when we are smiling, and most of us have heard about the fact that it takes more muscles to frown than to smile. All of that is interesting, but not as important as the mental and physical feeling we have when we are smiling. It is very powerful. ...

... me to teach them patriotism, good citizenship, sportsmanship, and fair play, how and where to register to vote, how to balance a checkbook, and how to apply for a job. I am to check their heads for lice, maintain a safe environment, recognize signs of antisocial behavior, offer advice, write letters of recommendation for student employment and scholarships, encourage respect for the cultural diversity of others, and, oh yeah, always make sure that I give the girls in my class 50 percent of my attention. My contract requires me to work on my own time after school and evenings grading papers. Also, I must spend my summer vacation at my own expense, working toward advance certification and a Master's degree. And on my own time you want me to attend committee and faculty meetings, PTA meetings, and participate in staff development training. I am to be a paragon of virtue, larger than life, such that ...

... eyes as he saw Jesus hanging on a cross. He saw spikes in His hands, a gash in His side, a torn and battered body, deep thorns sunk into His head. Finally he saw the suffering and pain on His precious face. As their eyes met, the man's tears turned to sobbing, and Jesus began to speak. Have you ever told a lie, he asked? The man answered---yes Lord. Have you ever been given to much change and kept it? The man answered yes Lord. And the man sobbed more and more. Have you ever taken something from work that wasn't yours, Jesus asked? And the man answered yes Lord. Have you ever sworn, using my Father's name in vain? The man, crying now, answered yes Lord. As Jesus asked many more times," Have you ever "? The man's crying became uncontrollable, for he could only answer yes Lord. ...

... Laughing, I let the child that still lives inside of me fall back into the snow and make a snow angel for the angels in Heaven to see. It felt good walking back to my house after a job well done. It felt even better looking around at this wonderful world of white. But it felt best of all knowing that God and His angels were watching over me with a love that passes all understanding. I don ’ t know why life sometimes gives us Spring days and sometimes dumps a ton of snow on us. I do know, however, that we can pray, laugh, love, and choose joy through it all. God loves us always. He comforts our souls and warms our hearts on the coldest Winter days. He laughs with us when our snow shovels break and smiles down on us when we make a snow angel. He is with us forever and that is the greatest Christmas present of all. ...

... Take-Off Will Be Delayed Have you ever given any thought to what it is like to be a bush pilot on the missionary field in Africa, or other parts of the world? These brave men and women risk their lives" several times a day" to help support and serve others. Imagine you are a bush pilot in the African veldt. You fly in some critical medical supplies, and land on a rough curving road that doubles as a runway. After unloading the medical supplies, you take a break from the sweltering heat, and have lunch in the shade of the make-shift hospital. You are eager to get to your next appointment. You return to your plane to find some very BIG cats (lions) in the shade of the wing." Now what should I do, Lord... ?" Editor: please do NOT" hotlink" to the picture. [A Fellow Pilot-from Web Servant, SkyWriting.Net] ...

... She visits me regularly now and we pray, Bible study, and watch girl movies together. It is as if we were kindred spirits all along. Since that day we are not only good friends, but are now relatives through marriage. What a plan God had all along some twelve years ago, to reunite two people at a time when they needed it most. Shortly thereafter, I received a second response to this much sought after request, when I was given the name of a friend's friend, to add to my writing ministry list. As I would send her writings, she sent back responses, telling me how they moved her. Before you knew it we became pen pals. What an exciting time it was, making new friends! As my writing gift started to grow, I felt the need for the friendship of another writer. I needed someone that understood writing. Another that I could bounce issues or ideas off of ...

... , Sarah is. The daycare staff labeled her" easy money" because she was always such a joy to be around. She wakes up happy, she giggles throughout the day, and she spends many of her waking moments trying to figure out how to be kind to others. She is so stunningly beautiful that complete strangers walk up to me in a store and tell me that I better watch out when she becomes a teenager. She is the child who will give up her favorite blanky to keep someone warm and will come up to her tired Mama and say," Mama, you work too hard. Is there anything I can do for you today ?" One of my favorite memories of Sarah goes back to my second pregnancy with her sister, Elana, when then too, I was so ill, I was parked on the couch, waiting for waves of nausea to dissipate. Sarah was concerned and so she lay down next to ...

... of land remained barren. After a week, the first man was lonely and he decided to pray for a wife. The next day, there was another ship wreck, and the only survivor was a woman who swam to his side of the island. On the other side of the island, there still was nothing. Soon the first man prayed for a house, clothes, and more food. The next day, like magic, all of these things were given to him. However, the second man still had nothing. Finally, the first man prayed for a ship, so that he and his wife could leave the island. In the morning, he found a ship docked on his side of the island. The first man boarded the ship with his wife and decided to leave the second man on the island. He considered the other man unworthy to receive God's blessings, since none of his prayers had been answered. As ...

... 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 ...

... starting to make a great deal of money in seven days. There are even ones for finding that perfect relationship in seven days. It is amazing just how many people there are out there who think that they can make our lives wonderful in a week. I have, however, found one way that you can change your life in just seven days. It doesn ’ t require that you buy an exercise machine, take a pill, invest your savings, or give out your credit card number either. All you need is yourself, and all you have to invest is your heart, soul, and mind. Just by doing four simple steps for seven days you can begin to turn your life into the joyous experience you always hoped it could be. The first step is simply to realize and know just how much God loves you. Once you see that God loves you and wants you to be happy then everything in your life will ...

... enemy into a friend. It can free a heart from the chains of anger, hatred, and pain. It can open a soul to the sweetness of love and joy once again. It can help you to live by the Golden Rule and to create a Golden Life. It can bring you back to oneness with God in everything you think, feel, and do. That is why I often pray," God help me to forgive, help me to give, and help me to love" May your life always be full of sweet forgiveness then. May you always delight in its Heavenly charms.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... sight it must be-thousands of flamingos taking to the sky at once! A few CAN make a difference. It's true that all of the great problems of the world have been solved because of the persistent efforts of a few. Anthropologist Margaret Mead put it like this:" Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has" If you believe in a cause, don't give up! Others will someday take notice and together we will solve even our greatest problems.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2008 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... 2, 000. The boys agreed and eventually the concert was held. Though the two student promoters worked hard, they took in only $1, 600. Discouraged, they told Paderewski of their efforts and handed him the $1, 600 with a note promising to pay him the balance of $400. But the artist tore up the note and gave them back the $1, 600." Take your expenses out of this ," he said," give yourselves each 10 %of what's left for your work, and let me have the rest" Years later, Paderewski was faced with feeding the people of his war-ravaged Poland. Amazingly, even before a request was made, thousands of tons of food were sent to Poland by the United States. Paderewski later traveled to Paris to thank Herbert Hoover, who headed up the US relief effort." That's all right, Mr. Paderewski ," said Hoover," I knew that ...

... He asked questions wise men couldn't answer. He taught profound truths with the simplest of comparisons. And He confronted hypocrites with words that exposed their cover-up. If all this was true, should we be surprised that His enemies didn't have the last word? 10. It Fits The Experience Of Those Who Trust Him The apostle Paul wrote," If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you" (Romans 8: 11). This was the experience of Paul, whose heart was dramatically changed by the resurrected Christ. It is also the experience of people all over the world who have" died" to their old ways so that Christ can live His life through them. This spiritual power is not evident in those who try to add belief in Christ to their old life. It is seen ...

... to make this world a paradise with everyone working together, helping each other, and caring for this planet that is our home. What are these three words?" God Loves You" God loves us all so much, yet so many of us go through life never accepting His love into our hearts, souls, and minds. Perhaps we don ’ t accept it because we don ’ t feel worthy of it. Well we aren ’ t, but God gives it to us just the same. When we do accept God ’ s love, however, an amazing thing happens. We start to become more worthy of it everyday. In fact, we start to choose it, share it, and live in it moment by moment. Then we begin to change the world around us as well. With God ’ s love flowing into our hearts like a river we begin to brighten everyone we meet with our light and uplift everyone ...

... church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, drove over 5 hours just so they could march around our church and pray during our Sunday morning services. The Fort Worth Police Dept. planted flowers in the flower beds before we reentered the sanctuary to worship. We have received over 10, 000 emails, 5, 000 cards, and $60, 000 from all over the world. Al Meredith, our pastor has had the microphone in his face continually and has over and over given an outstanding answer to the reason for our hope. He presented the gospel beautifully on Larry King Live when prompted by a question asked by Vice President Al Gore. Because of the live news coverage and interviews, over 200 million people have heard the gospel because of this tragedy. Fifteen thousand turned out for a community wide service at TCU football stadium. Brother Al gave a very serious challenging message calling for a day of fasting and heart searching (Monday the 20th). ...

... Surprisingly, many of them wore cherished pieces of yarn around their wrists for days and weeks afterward. Every year now, students ask their teacher to end the term with the Web of Love. It has become an annual tradition in their high school! Which goes to show how much encouragement means to most people. Why wait? We can find opportunities to affirm others throughout the day. Few people grow weary of hearing sincere appreciation and praise. And each time you give it you help to create an invisible web of love that can last a lifetime.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... offered a century of wis ­ dom in a few short sentences:" Enrich your life by becoming a better per ­ son, a better student and an individual worthy of trust and faithful in your commitments. Aspire to help and not hinder in all your good and worthy undertakings. Use these words often: 'thank you, ' 'please, ' 'I'm sorry ' Af ­ ter living 100 years, I admonish you to think deeply, speak gently, work hard, give freely, pay promptly, pray earnestly and be kind" Wisdom doesn't come much better than that.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... price for sin. What if, the door of the church was closed because we did not open the door of our heart? What if, GOD stopped loving and caring for us because we failed to love and care for others? What if, GOD would not hear us today because we would not listen to Him yesterday? What if, GOD answered our prayers the way we answer His call to service? What if, GOD met our needs the way we give Him our lives ??? What if, We fail to share this message. ??? [Gabriela-from Rhonda and David] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... to make us change our ways" Proverbs 20: 30 (GN) God uses problems to INSPECT you. People are like tea bags. If you want to know what's inside them, just drop them into hot water! Has God ever tested your faith with a problem? What do problems reveal about you?" When you have many kinds of troubles, you should be full of joy, because you know that these troubles test your faith, and this will give you patience" James 1: 2-3 (NCV) God uses problems to CORRECT you. Some lessons we learn only through pain and failure. It's likely that as a child your parents told you not to touch a hot stove. But you probably learned by being burned. Sometimes we only learn the value of something, health, money and a relationship. By losing it." It was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me to ...

... of goodies? Or an egg-hunt in the neighbor's back yard? Do we think about fun family gatherings? Or receiving a bright Easter card? Or is Easter for sporting new clothing? Or perhaps a new style for our hair? Is it daffodils, tulips and lilies? Or the smells of new life in the air? But stop! What's the reason for Easter? Just what makes it a festive affair? Was it not that Christ rose on that morning, Giving meaning to life everywhere? Christ is God. He descended from heaven To live humbly on earth as a man. He suffered, and died as a criminal, To fulfill God's redemption plan. Can we know of the depth of Christ's suffering? Can we fathom His anguish and pain? 'Twas for us He was tortured, forsaken, Went to Hell, then ascended again. What if Jesus had failed in His mission To die for the sins of all men? There ...

... of our day! The question in life is not" How much time do I have ?" It is" What shall I do with the time I have ?" Value work. We must ask ourselves:" Is this work vital for strengthening my own character, or inspiring others, or helping the world ?" Of course, one must work to earn a living, but it is HOW we do even menial tasks that counts. We must value the work God has given us to do, and do it to please Him and to be a testimony to those with whom we work. Seek happiness every day. If we are not happy today, we will never be happy! Or as an old teacher of mine used to say:" If you are not happy anywhere, you will not be happy anywhere" It took me a few years to figure that one out. But she was right. Be happy today, regardless of circumstances ...

... sound of children at play. Each day just before I pick up my boy I take in this glorious and happy sight of the preschool children having one last recess before they go home. Many of the parents are there as well smiling as they watch that special joy that their children are creating. I look on as one happy boy swings and calls out for his teacher to watch. I see two smiling girls skip, laugh, and gather handfuls of dandelions to give their Moms. I watch as two boys ride the rocking horses with all the energy and delight that their little hearts can muster. I smile upon seeing a girl hanging upside down from the miniature money bars and giggling at the whole world. As I get my own son he too runs for the swing set for one last ride as well before we head home. He may have the body of a 12 year old, but he still has the bliss of a child's ...

... tender smile, my Grandma ’ s big hugs, a loving greeting from my dog, Duke and a loaf of warm, Italian bread for dinner running through my mind. They always kept my heart and feet going right where they needed to go. Life here on Earth can also be as tricky as walking on a narrow, steel beam at times. You may even feel in moments like a huge railroad car is about to fall on you. Don ’ t give up, though. It is times like these that you have to keep your eyes on home. Our lives here may be our house for a while, but they are not our home. As much as we may learn about love and grow in goodness here our true home still awaits us. It is there where the smiles will never cease, the hugs will go on forever, and the love will never end. It is there where we will feast in God ...

... , I believe it is one of the most hopeful words in our language. We human beings, by turning, can do something about the course we've taken. We may not be able to change what we've already done; and we may not be able to fully escape the consequences of past choices. But we need not continue in the same, destructive path. We can turn. We can find our way again! Are you headed the wrong direction? Don't give up .you can always start over. You can always turn. And turn again .and again .until you come out right.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2006 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Truthfulness For those who aren't familiar with the story of George Washington and the cherry tree, let me give you the 30 second version. George Washington, the first President of the United States, was known for his truthfulness, even as a child. The story tells that young George chopped down a cherry tree and when his father asked him about it, he told his father the truth. George was not punished because of his truthfulness. You can figure out the moral of the story. Now, imagine if this happened in today's world..." George Washington, did YOU chop down the cherry tree ?"" No, Dad"" I think you are lying"" No, no, no! I swear I did NOT chop down the cherry tree"" Son, I saw you out here with your axe. Your punishment will be much worse for you if you lie. Now, tell me the truth !" ...

... Twenty Dollars A well known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In the room of 200, he asked." Who would like this $20 bill ?" Hands started going up. He said," I am going to give this $20 to one of you-but first, let me do this" He proceeded to crumple the 20 dollar note up. He then asked." Who still wants it ?" Still the hands were up in the air." Well ," he replied," what if I do this ?" He dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty." Now, who still wants it ?" Still the hands went into the air." My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because ...

... pulled out two sheets of paper and handed them to the man." Please fill this out and bring it back to me. It's an application for assistance. The church board demands that everything be done properly and in good order here" The homeless man took the papers, walked over to a small desk, sat down, and filled them out. Then he returned the application to the secretary. She looked over the papers and said," Before we can give you anything, our Executive Board has to approve this. You're in luck. They meet tomorrow night. Come back Wednesday morning and we'll see if we can do anything for you"" But I'm so hungry ," the man said." Maybe the minister can help me. May I see him ?" The secretary was clearly becoming agitated." Do you have an appointment ?"" No, ma'am"" You must have an appointment. Our minister is very busy. ...

... bread. It wasn't fair, he emphasized, that other restaurants served lots of bread. But here he gets only one piece. So the next time he came in, they served him four pieces. He still complained it wasn't enough. On his next visit his server brought him a dozen pieces of bread. The man still complained. For his next visit they put a large basket of bread on the table. But still he complained." The other restaurants give all the bread you can eat" They decided to be ready for him the next day. They had an enormous loaf of bread prepared. It was six feet long and two feet wide. Four people carried the loaf to his table. They plopped it down in front of him. It took up half the table and hung over both sides. The chef stood back, pleased with himself, to see how the customer would react. He looked over the loaf and ...

... make wrong choices. As we talked, I felt better about the dissolution of my first marriage than I ever had, and I saw that my tiny philosopher was coming to grips with the idea that making wrong choices could actually be the beginning of better choices. As she enters her preteen years (ugh !) we have already begun to butt heads over things that have never mattered before. But, just when I feel we will never come to terms, she will give me a sly smile and a hug, then whisper" Two tries" And I am reminded that everyone needs the room to explore, fail, and grow. Thank God for the honest wisdom of a child. [Lynnette Johnson-from 'Love Quotes '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... greater their need to blame others. Age 45: I learned that I can never allow the disappointments of life to steal my enthusiasm. Age 50: I learned that I can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. Age 55: I learned that keeping a vegetable garden is worth a medicine cabinet full of pills. Age 60: I learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. Age 65: I learned that I shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. I need to be able to throw something back. Age 70: I learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you miss them terribly after they die. Age 75: I learned that children and grandparents are natural allies. Age 80: I learned that even suffering has its gifts. Age 85: I learned that whenever I decide ...

... as well. They knew too that anytime they visited their grandparents or great-grandparents that they would get more of the same. It was, after all, a family tradition. Of the three, however, I think that it was the warm hugs that my children and I enjoyed most of all. As a boy those hugs kept me warm even on those cold, Winter days when the house was drafty and everyone was crowded around the wood stove. As a man giving those hugs still brought a big, warm smile to my kids ’ faces even when my cooking left something to be desired. It is those hugs that I still share freely with my children even now that they are as big as I am. It is those hugs that I hope to share with my future grandchildren too. It is those hugs with their armfuls of joy that can help us all to share our love for each other. It is those hugs that I ...

... 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. ...

... load in their life. Our skills and talents may be able to make us some money, but our love, goodness, and oneness with God can help to make this world a better place forever. Leo Buscaglia said," To work in love is to work in joy, to live in love is to live in joy" Don ’ t be afraid of a little hard work then. Do all of your work in love and in joy. Work at giving, work at loving, and work at living happily ever after, day by day and choice by choice. God put us here to grow, to learn, to work, and to love. God put us here to find joy in our efforts and to share love in our lives. Do all of your work with a smile on your face, with love in your heart, with joy in your mind, and with light in your soul. If you do ...

... Letting Your Soul Catch Up Did you know that practicing some form of relaxation is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself? Taking time each day to quiet your mind and breathe deeply, can make a big difference in how you feel throughout your day and into the night. And dedicating a day every week for mental and spiritual renewal is equally important. We're told that the word" relax" has its origin in the Latin word" relaxare ," which means" to loosen" When we relax, we are in effect loosening tension, releasing tightly held energy and letting go. From the state of relaxation we can experience calm peacefulness. Another great word is the Hebrew word" Shabbat" which, of course, is a day of rest. But it quite literally means to" quit; stop; take a break" Whatever you are doing, stop it. Whatever you are saying, be quiet. Sit down and take ...

... Your Value in God's Eyes A well known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In the room of 200, he asked," Who would like this $20 bill ?" Hands started going up. He said," I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this" He proceeded to crumple the dollar bill up. He then asked," Who still wants it ?" Still the hands were up in the air." Well ," he replied," What if I do this ?" He dropped it on the floor, and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked up the $20 bill, now all crumpled and dirty." Now who still wants it ?" Still the hands went into the air." My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, ...

... Are You Having Fun Yet? Plato said that work should be play. Some airline employees have taken his injunction seriously. After landing, one flight attendant announced," Thank you for flying Delta Business Express. We hope you enjoyed giving us the business as much as we enjoyed taking you for a ride" There's a flight attendant who knows how to turn her work into play. She may have been the same one who, as the passengers disembarked from the aircraft, announced," Last one off the plane must clean it" A British insurance agent has fun with the accident reports he reads from some of his clients. Like the one who wrote:" I started to slow down but the traffic was more stationary than I thought" You know, stationary traffic can be like that. Another client reported," Windscreen broken. Cause unknown. Probably Voodoo" Voodoo would be a worry. Before he became an actor, Ray ...

... and a voice to share the gospel, you are blessed. About 1 / 3 of the world does not even know who the one true God is. If you can hold someone's hand, hug another person, touch someone on the shoulder, you are blessed because you can offer God's healing touch. If you can share a word of encouragement with someone else, and do it with His love in your heart, you are blessed because you have learned how to give. If you have the conviction to stand fast upon His Word and His promises, no matter what, you are blessed because you are learning patience, endurance, and tenacity. If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful, you are blessed because most people 'can '-but won't. Go Now. And. Enjoy The Day. Knowing You Are Blessed. [Sent In By Roy (roy74 @juno.com)-from andychap.com ...

... 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 the same side. God can mend all broken hearts. You just have to give him all the pieces. A person who asks a question might be a fool for five minutes, but a person who doesn't ask, is a fool forever. A best friend is like a four leaf clover. hard to find, and lucky to have. A friend is someone who reaches for your hand but touches your heart. A coincidence is when God performs a miracle, and decides to remain anonymous. I don't have to attend every argument I'm invited to. ...

... of the night to ask," What are you thinking ?" She doesn't care what you think. If an over 40 woman doesn't want to watch the game, she doesn't sit around whining about it. She does something she wants to do. And it's usually something more interesting. An over 40 woman knows herself well enough to be assured in who she is, what she is, what she wants, and from whom. Few women past the age of 40 give a darn what you might think about her or what she's doing. An over 40 woman usually has had her fill of" meaningful relationships and commitment" The last thing she wants in her life is another dopey, clingy, whiny, dependent lover. Over 40 women are dignified. They seldom have a screaming match with you at the opera or in the middle of an expensive restaurant. Of course, if you deserve it, they won't hesitate to shoot you if they ...

... think the light is better there. The truth is if they were willing to look within they would find a light far brighter and more illuminating than any on the outside. They would find the glorious glow of their own souls that have been patiently waiting for their arrival. They would find the love of God that lights up the world and the light of their own love as well. They would find a beautiful fire that would warm their hearts and that they could give to everyone everywhere. Don ’ t be afraid to look on the inside. The light on the outside is nowhere near as magnificent and golden as the loving light that shines from your own soul. God ’ s loving light lives within each of us. That is the light you should seek. That is the light that will guide you to a joyous life and that is the light that you should share with the whole world.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ ...

... . But one important strategy for feeling better (and one that's LEAST used) is as important as the rest. It is helping others in need. Visit a shut-in neighbor. Write a letter. Call a friend who has been struggling. Volunteer at church, synagogue or the local food pantry. Rake someone's leaves. Bake homemade bread for a new neighbor. Wash your spouse's car. Volunteer to baby-sit for a young mother. Plan an unexpected act of kindness. Give a gift for no reason at all. The needs are abundant, and those who put aside some regular time to do something kind for others will often forget they were feeling low. Why does is work? I don't know … it just does. Reach out and lift somebody else up and for some wondrous and magical reason, you lift yourself up, too. Corrie Ten Boom beautifully said," The measure of a life, after all, is not its duration ...

... day! Why? Because we are nothing if we don't visit the cross, or look upon the empty tomb. Life is empty for me if the cross I can't see, and life's too large a cross to bear if the empty tomb's not there! Whenever I sin, whenever I fail, the cross reminds me of forgiveness -past, present and future. Whenever I doubt His love, I look at the cross and see His perfect love already proven, already given. I need to visit the cross each day. I also need to visit the empty tomb each day as well. Why? To remind me that life has victory that is full and eternal. Some days, victory is hidden beneath a vail of pain or sorrow just as it was that first Easter. But, when I look at the tomb and realize that the very same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in me (Eph 1: 18-20 ...

... someone said that teachers and principals better not discipline our children when they misbehave. And our school administrators said, no one in this school better touch a student when they misbehave because we don't want any bad publicity, and we surely don't want to be sued. Then someone said, let's let our daughters have abortions if they want, and we won't even have to tell their parents. And we said, that's a grand idea. Then someone else said, let's give our sons all the condoms they want, so they can have all the" fun" they desire, and we won't have to tell their parents. And we said, that's another great idea. And then some of our top officials said that it doesn't matter what we do in private as long as we do our jobs. And we said, as long as I have a job and the economy is good, it doesn't matter to me what anyone does in private ...

... steps in." Jennifer, why don't you say the prayer you learned in Sunday School when you were in kindergarten" She recites. The feast begins. Embarrassed silence replaces thanksgiving, gluttony displaces gratefulness. Thanksgiving -an expression of gratitude to God for benefits received -is too often absent from our hollow holiday. There is, however, an ancient custom which can reclaim the day. We read, Jesus" took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples" At the Last Supper Jesus took bread and gave thanks, lifted the cup, gave thanks and offered it to His followers. Jesus always prayed before meals. We can, too. A simple prayer of thanks at each family meal of the year will gradually restore thankfulness to us. As our children see us humble ourselves to thank our Creator, they too learn to be grateful. Robert Lintner said it well ...

... is landing your plane when it comes to values? Bill McCartney coached the University of Colorado football team for several years. He shocked the sports world when he resigned at the apex of his career. They were more stunned by his reason for stepping away. The reason he gave for quitting was that he wanted to spend time with his wife and with religious pursuits. He showed the world who was landing his plane. Sports writers struggled to understand." What man gives up such power and prestige ?" they asked. And there was a certain amount of power and prestige. Because of McCartney's leadership, the team achieved national prominence. The college and professional football world knew the name Bill McCartney." Put another way ," writers also asked," what man walks out on a $350, 000-per-year contract with 10 years remaining so that he can spend time with his wife and his God ?" Writers used words like" radical" and" ...

... through prayer. When we pray and" WAIT" upon the LORD we can definitely feel the peace and security that only HE can provide. JESUS is the only one who can truly help us. Besides that, HE knows our every" true need ," and HE will nerver fail us. Addendum-Matthew 11: 28 (NLT)" Then Jesus said," Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest" [Author Unknown-Submitted by: Caroline Naoroji-Ed: Anon.] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... white envelope stuck among the branches of our Christmas tree. No name, no identification, no inscription. It has peeked through the branches of our tree for the past 10 years or so. It all began because my husband Mike hated Christmas-oh, not the true meaning of Christmas, but the commercial aspects of it like overspending, the frantic running around at the last minute to get a tie for Uncle Harry and the dusting powder for Grandma-the gifts given in desperation because you couldn't think of anything else. Knowing he felt this way, I decided one year to bypass the usual shirts, sweaters, tie sand so forth. I reached for something special just for Mike. The inspiration came in an unusual way. Our son Kevin, who was 12 that year, was wrestling at the junior level at the school he attended; and shortly before Christmas, there was a non-league match against a team sponsored by an inner-city church ...

... The Journey Toward Faith When people say God doesn't shut the door without opening the window, I think I know what they mean and I would like to share it with you. When it seems like life has dealt you a bad hand, maybe it is for a reason. I have a friend that grew up in an abused home and was moved around a lot. At times my friend wanted to give up but she had a very special friend that would not let her for every now and then a ray of sunshine would appear in her life, just enough to keep her going and just as she began seeing the calm after the storm the ultimate tragedy happened. Her best friend was killed in an accident," What else can I tolerate ?" she asked. She began searching for a new beginning, every door was shut in her face. One day she spoke to the minister of her church and pleaded for answers. She ...

... before the bishop, and with heads hung low one of them said," Your excellency, we desire for you to teach us how to love our Savior more, but we are ashamed to say we have forgotten the last line of the prayer you taught us" Then the bishop, humbled to his core, got down on his knees in front of the three hermits and said," My brothers, you have no need of me to teach you anything. Give me your blessing and I will go in peace" True spirituality comes not from how much you know about God but from how much you love God." Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. But the man who loves God is known by God" (1 Corinthians 8: 1-3). [Wayne Rice-from 'Daily Wisdom '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved ...

... be especially for them. Finally, the voice spoke," Gather as many pebbles as you can. Put them in your saddle bags. Travel a day's journey and tomorrow night will find you glad and it will find you sad" After having departed, the nomads shared their disappointment and anger with each other. They had expected the revelation of a great universal truth that would enable them to create wealth, health and purpose for the world. But instead they were given a menial task that made no sense to them at all. However, the memory of the brilliance of their visitor caused each one to pick up a few pebbles and deposit them in their saddle bags while voicing their displeasure. They traveled a day's journey and that night while making camp, they reached into their saddle bags and discovered every pebble they had gathered had become a diamond. They were glad they had diamonds. They were sad they had not gathered more pebbles. ...

... even going so far as to drive a different route to work so he would not go by his favorite pastry shop. (Remembering Paul's admonishment to" flee" temptation) Shortly his co-workers could see a difference. One day he arrived at work and, to the astonishment of his co-workers, he was carrying a humongous pastry, obviously laden with dozens of grams of fat and thousands of calories. One of his colleagues followed him into his office and said," Giving up on the old diet, eh ?"" Oh, no, Fred, today, this is the will of God !" proclaimed the businessman." See, I turned the wrong direction this morning and before I realized it, I was on my old route that would take me by this pastry shop. Now, I've been very good on my diet and there for a second or two I thought, ' wouldn't it be a fine way to reward myself for my ...

... , or studying for a message. If I'm not at home at night, I'm out having a good time. If I'm home, I'm neglecting important outside contacts and activities. If I don't agree with persons, I'm bullheaded. If I do agree, I don't have any ideas of my own. If I don't do what I'm requested, I'm a very poor pastor or minister. If I do agree, well, that's what I'm paid for. If I give someone a short answer, I'm" too big for my britches" If I attempt to explain the pros and cons of an issue, I'm a know-it-all. If I'm well dressed, I think I'm a big shot. If I'm not, I'm a poor representative of my office. If I'm on the job a short time, I'm inexperienced. If I've been there a long time, It's time for a change. (Just a joke, but quite a lot of ...

... figurehead. If he uses too many illustrations, he neglects the Bible; if he doesn't use enough illustrations, he isn't clear. If he condemns wrong, he is cranky; if he doesn't preach against sin, he's a compromiser. If he fails to please somebody, he's hurting the church and ought to leave; if he tries to please everyone, he is a fool. If he preaches about money, he's a money grabber; if he doesn't preach spiritual giving, he is failing to develop the people. If he drives an old car, he shames his congregation; if he drives a new car, he is setting his affection on earthly things. If he preaches all the time, the people get tired of hearing one man; if he invites guest speakers, he is shirking his responsibility. If he receives a large salary, he's mercenary; if he receives only a small salary, well it proves he isn't worth much ...

... long hair and grey beard looked frosted from the air. In one hand he held 3 grocery bags. The other hand was up, hitchhiking in the swirling snowstorm. I don ’ t usually pick up hitchhikers because with 3 grown kids and one small car there usually isn ’ t room. This time, however, I pulled over fast and opened the door for the shivering man. He wasn ’ t headed to the same town I was but I agreed to give him a ride halfway home. For the next 12 miles then we rode and talked. It was one of the most enjoyable and enlightening conversations I ’ d had in a long time. We talked of education, money, my children, the kindness of strangers, and even touched on spirituality. My passenger was a retired school teacher living on a fixed income, but he didn ’ t let having little money and no car keep him from experiencing life to the fullest ...

... You don ’ t have to be young, however, to form the habits of love. It is never too late to choose them. They can become your blessings not just in old age but at any age. You can start today to fill your life with the happiness they create, joy they share, and oneness with God they bring. You can open doors with your kindness, open hearts with your helpfulness, and open souls with your goodness. God gives you a lifetime to learn the habits of love and to share them with the world. May you always delight in doing so.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... years, we were in a real mess, but with the Lord's grace and guidance, we slogged through problem after problem. He rescued our marriage. Jenny here (the clerk) told me she kept a vase of rose stems to remind her of what she learned from" thorny" times, and that was good enough for me. I took home some of those stems. My wife and I decided to label each one for a specific" problem" and give thanks for what that problem taught us" As Phil paid the clerk, he said to Sandra," I highly recommend the Special !"" I don't know if I can be thankful for the thorns in my life" Sandra said." It's all too .fresh"" Well ," the clerk replied carefully," my experience has shown me that thorns make roses more precious. We treasure God's providential care more during trouble than at any other time. Remember, it was ...

... He asked many questions about Uganda and Africa. When she asked why he was so interested, he was a little embarrassed but told of the bet with Doug. She invited him to return with her in a few days to visit the orphanage, and he went. He was so touched, that when he got home he and some friends sent toys and clothing. A week later he received a call from the lady at the orphanage." The children want to give you a special presentation if you will visit again. Can you come ?" He went. Following the heartwarming ceremony, a phone call came for Bob from the president of Uganda to thank him personally, on behalf of Uganda, for his gifts to the orphans, and the president then asked him to visit that afternoon. When he arrived, the president was rushing off to some appointments, but invited him along. During their travels, Bob saw a stockyard full of men ...

... lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl. Sometimes she'd ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing. As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said," I'm tired. Let's go now" We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico. Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her. I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair." How much do I owe you ?" she asked, reaching into ...

... him, so that one day he could be part of the biggest immigration project in history. And to do that, God chose the rich soil of a desert" garbage pile" as his garden. Your life may feel like a garbage heap. You may look around and wonder what flower could possibly bloom in the wasteland where you have been planted. You may figure God is finished with you (or perhaps forgot to ever start). But maybe God is giving you some garbage pile time, not to punish you, but to season and mature you. Perhaps this is just one stop on the way to something wonderful God has planned for you and your life. Perhaps this is just God's way of equipping you for something bigger than you have ever imagined. Israel's road to Canaan ran through four decades in the desert. Paul's road to apostle-ship detoured through three days of blindness. Christ's road to glory paused in the wilderness of temptation ...

... hearing all day long was positive or negative. These researchers determined that ninety percent of the input the group received was negative – bad news. That may not come as a surprise to everyone. Over a half-century ago, Franklin Roosevelt told about an old man who was losing his hearing and went to the doctor for help. He was advised to quit drinking alcohol. When his family asked him what he was going to do, he replied," Well, I've given it a lot of thought and I've decided I like what I've been drinkin ' so much better than what I've been hearin, I'm just gonna keep on gettin ' deaf" But there is still GOOD news aplenty. We can still hear encouraging words from friends. Any day we can witness numerous acts of generosity and kindness. And we can still spot signs all around us of love and hope. Sometimes we may have to look a little more closely, but the good ...

... The" Golden" Suitcase After five long years of college, my dear friend Kathy and I, our children (Dianna and Michael ), boarded an Amtrak passenger train, and headed off to Colorado Springs. My parents had so lovingly given me this paid vacation, as a college graduation gift. I looked forward to sitting back, reading a non-medical book, and watching miles and miles of countryside pass by. The only problem was, I didn't have any luggage to pack my belongings in. My friend Debbie, heard that I needed a suitcase and offered to lend me one that belonged to her father, who had passed away long ago." I don't know if you'll want to use it ," she said so gently," it's very old, worn out, and such an ugly yellow color" I was so touched by her offer to lend something that belonged to her father, but, I was also concerned about the possibly ...

... going to have. Today I can complain because the weather is rainy or. I can be thankful that the grass is getting watered for free. Today I can feel sad that I don't have more money or. I can be glad that my finances encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste. Today I can grumble about my health or. I can rejoice that I am alive. Today I can lament over all that my parents didn't give me when I was growing up or. I can feel grateful that they allowed me to be born. Today I can cry because roses have thorns or. I can celebrate that thorns have roses. Today I can mourn my lack of friends or. I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships. Today I can whine because I have to go to work or. I can shout for joy because I have a job to do. Today I can complain ...

... He climbed them with legs shaking with anticipation and slowly opened the door. He stared into the room with sunlight streaming through the window and saw what he had come so far to find. There hanging on the wall was the secret of happiness. The man gazed at his reflection in the mirror and laughed. It is time that we all realized that we are the secret to our own happiness. Happiness is a choice that we make within. God loves us and gives each one of us the ability to fill our lives with love, joy, peace, happiness, and oneness with Him. We need only choose to do so moment by moment and day by day. It doesn't matter what our outer circumstances are either, because the Kingdom of Heaven is within us. Don't spend the rest of your life searching the world for happiness then. Just look in the mirror and laugh. Just let the happiness flow from your heart, mind ...

... be grateful for the twenty-four hours that are before me. Time is a precious commodity. I refuse to allow what little time I have to be contaminated by self-pity, anxiety, or boredom. I will face this day with the joy of a child and the courage of a giant. I will drink each minute as though it is my last. When tomorrow comes, today will be gone forever. While it is here, I will use it for loving and giving. Today I will make a difference. I will not let past failures haunt me. Even though my life is scarred with mistakes, I refuse to rummage through my trash heap of failures. I will admit them. I will correct them. I will press on. Victoriously. No failure is fatal. It's OK to stumble. I will get up. It's OK to fail. I will rise again. Today I will make a difference. I will spend time ...

... the time to say hello, or return a smile, or shake a hand, or listen, I would not have known this person. Yesterday would have turned into today and our chance meeting would be gone. Yesterday I hugged someone very dear to me. Today they are gone. and tomorrow will not bring them back. Wouldn't it be nice if we all knew tomorrow would be here? But this is not to be, so take the time TODAY to give a hug, a smile, an" I love you". JUST FOR TODAY, .smile at a stranger .listen to someone's heart .drop a coin where a child can find it .learn something new, then teach it to someone .tell someone you're thinking of them .hug a loved one .don't hold a grudge .don't be afraid to say" I'm sorry" .look a child in the eye and tell them how great they are .don't kill that spider in your house, he's just lost ...

... was with his father as well, and kept picking up the Pokemon video toys. Each time he picked one up and looked at his father, his father shook his head," no" The little girl had apparently chosen her Barbie, a beautifully-dressed, glamorous doll that would have been the envy of every little girl on the block. However, she had stopped and was watching the interchange between the little boy and his father. Rather dejectedly, the boy had given up on the video games and had chosen what looked like a book of stickers instead. He and his father then started walking through another aisle of the store. The little girl put her Barbie back on the shelf, and ran over to the Pokemon games. She excitedly picked up one that was lying on top of the other toys, and raced toward the check-out, after speaking with her father. I picked up my purchases and got in line behind them. Then ...

... to his eyes as he saw Jesus hanging on a cross. He saw spikes in His hands, a gash in His side, a torn and battered body, deep thorns sunk into His head. Finally he saw the suffering and pain on His precious face. As their eyes met, the man's tears turned to sobbing, and Jesus began to speak. Have you ever told a lie, he asked? The man answered-yes Lord. Have you ever been given too much change and kept it? The man answered yes Lord. And the man sobbed more and more. Have you ever taken something from work that wasn't yours, Jesus asked? And the man answered yes Lord. Have you ever sworn, using my Father's name in vain? The man, crying now, answered yes Lord. As Jesus asked many more times," Have you ever "? The man's crying became uncontrollable, for he could only answer yes Lord. ...

... 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? Why would God nominate Job for a job whose description included burying all of ...

... To My Children When I spill some food on my nice clean dress Or maybe forget to tie my shoes, Please be patient and perhaps reminisce About the many hours I spent with you, When I taught you how to eat with care, Plus tying laces and your numbers too, Dressing yourself and combing your hair. Those were precious hours spent with you, So when I forget what I was about to say, Just give me a minute or maybe two, It probably wasn't important anyway, And I would much rather listen just to you. If I tell the story one more time, And you know the ending through and through, Please remember your first nursery rhyme When I rehearsed it a hundred times with you. When my legs are tired and it's hard to stand, Or walk the steady path that I would like to do, Please take me carefully by the hand, And guide me now as I often did for ...

... , and she called the runner safe. Tanner looked at Benson and without saying a word, tossed the ball to the catcher and returned to his position. Benson sensed something was wrong." Did you tag the runner ?" She asked Tanner. His reply:" Yes" Benson then called the runner out. The opposing coaches protested until she explained what had happened two weeks earlier." If a kid is that honest ," she said," I have to give it to him" It may be that no Christian characteristic has suffered more in our society than honesty. It's lacking in the workplace, it's lacking in many of our marriages, it's lacking in our government, and sometimes it's even lacking in our churches. Like Diogenes of ancient Greece, we sometimes feel the urge to take our lantern and begin our search for an honest man. There is something about Christians that should stand out like a neon sign on a dark night ...

... closer together or it can be used to distance us and destroy us. The choice is in how we use it. The key I feel is love. God ’ s greatest wish is for us to love each other. I hope you make all of your calls and e-mails joyous gifts of love then. But if there is someone right beside you who needs your love don ’ t be afraid to turn off the electronics, look them in the eye, and give them a hug.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2009 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... The Vacuum Vacuuming my house is something I most often leave to the fine-tuned domestic capabilities of my wife. She will actually use the hose to clean corners and reach cracks and crevices that I wouldn't even think of trying to get. My philosophy is that if you absolutely must vacuum, just get to the main part of the carpet and give it a quick once over-if you can't trip over it, it must be clean. I have owned my share of mischievous vacuum cleaners over the years. There have been the ones that gargle with little pieces of metal or debris left behind by children who just happen to enjoy the sound of a vacuum cleaner beating itself up. Once it gets to the velocity of a jet engine, it shoots the metal piece across the room causing" Fluffy" the cat to forfeit another life. I've also had the vacuum cleaner that found an almost imperceptible frayed bit of carpet. It latches onto that ...

... and simply said, 'I wish it was Friday '" I felt better about my day when I left the post office .that man's smile and comment, although irritating at first, made me think." The second time I ran into the man I went out of my way to say 'Happy Friday ' to him and to smile. I saw him a few more times and always he was cheery and 'made my day '" I looked for him around Christmastime to give him a card and explain how his kind words and smile that very first day made me regroup my thinking and realize I didn't have it so bad. But I have not seen him at the post office since then. I look every morning .I go at different times to see if I can catch him. Maybe he retired, maybe he is ill. I think to myself, 'I wish I had thanked him for being a kind person ' I can honestly say this ...

... one like that last night. I was walking down an old, side road that I used to walk along as a teenager. I wasn ’ t quite sure where I was headed, but I felt very determined to get there. Like in many dreams time seemed fluid and people seemed ageless. As I walked along I kept meeting people from both my past and my present. I saw both my Mom and my Grandma who have passed away and was able to give them both one more hug. I ran into many childhood friends and we talked, joked, and laughed just like we were kids again. Still, I kept walking hoping to reach wherever I was headed. Around every curve, though, there was something new. I saw strangers in need and stopped to help them. I found ancient books and gemstones along the side of the road and shared them with others. I met a smiling, old man who happily shared ...

... qualities, I find them. I, in a sense, select what I expect, and I receive it. A life without challenges would be like going to school without lessons to learn. Challenges come not to depress or get me down, but to master and to grow and to unfold thereby. In the Father's wise and loving plan for me, no burden can fall upon me, no emergency can arise, no grief can overtake me, before I am given the grace and strength to meet them. A rich, full life is not determined by outer circumstances and relationships. These can be contributory to it, but cannot be the source. I am happy or unhappy because of what I think and feel. I can never lose anything that belongs to me, nor can I posses what is not really mine. To never run from a problem: either it will chase me or I will run into another just like it, ...

... Thoughts Of Yesterday I am running out of wall and mantle space here in my little home. It seems like almost every square inch of my walls and mantles is now covered with framed photographs. It looks really crowded but happy up there. It is a delight seeing all of those joyful faces smiling down on me. They are far more beautiful than any wallpaper. My cats, however, have given me more than a few annoyed looks as they walk around the smaller frames on my mantles. It may be they miss their old napping spots or it may be because there are no pictures of them there. Either way I am not taking a single frame down. Each one of them is a second of joy frozen forever in time. Each one brings a warm thought of yesterday to my mind and a peaceful smile of happiness to my face. Each one brings a memory of love to my heart and the sweet taste of laughter ...

... Of Heaven My thoughts have been on heaven a lot lately. I have a quote on my board above my writing desk, in my room that goes some what like this:" A woman of wisdom guards her heart and diligently keeps her eyes upon her home and heaven" When we are focused upon heaven, all the little mundane chores of life become sparkled with a heavenly brilliance, that will last throughout eternity. When we love the family and friends God has given to us, with all of our hearts; we will have blessings showered down from Heaven. Yesterday was the hardest day I have had in some time. I had this void within my heart all day -it would not leave me alone. It was the type of void that we try to fill with earthly desires: coffee, chocolate, sex, drugs, movies, getting angry, yelling, hitting, and the list goes on. It was gnawing at me, ...

... conversation, communicating in groups, and expressing detail verbally. Men enjoy variety, respond well to good-natured challenge, and place a high value on personal space and privacy. Every relationship can benefit from a periodic change of pace. Try a new restaurant. Take a trip to a nearby location chosen at random. Rent a hotel room even if you have privacy at home. Experiment with fantasy. Learn how to be playfully unpredictable. Creativity will keep a relationship fresh. Give yourself reinforcement after you have successfully tried one of the techniques to improve your relationship, even if the outcome was not exactly what you wanted. It is very important to be" self-rewarding" [Fred L. Holtz, PhD-from 'Love Quotes '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... People who love themselves aren't concerned with comparing themselves to anyone else. They recognize that they, like everyone else, deserve love regardless of status or possessions. People who love themselves treat themselves nicely and do healthy things for themselves. They don't indulge in behaviors they know are destructive. People who love themselves radiate a magical self-confidence that draws others to them, yet they don't feel the need to win the adoration of the world. People who love themselves know how to give away that love to others; they help them feel loved and show them how to love themselves. People who love themselves can include you. Try, and a beautiful world will slowly unfold in front of you as you grow. [Oliver Wendell Holmes-from 'Love Quotes ' (LoveQuotes-owner @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... it with everyone I meet. You see, God blesses the world with Spring once a year but blesses us with Spring everyday of our lives. Each time we pray, share our love, spread our joy, stop to help another, or do a single act of kindness it is once again Springtime in our souls. Embrace the Springtime in within you then no matter what the season. Live from the eternal Spring of life, goodness, and love that God gives you and help Him renew this world each and everyday. Spring is the season of new life. May your Springtime last forever.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2009 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... your response. Just listen. The Gift of Affection Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends. The Gift of Laughter Clip cartoons. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say," I love to laugh with you" The Gift of Solitude There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others. The Gift of a Favor Every day, go out of your way to do something kind. The Gift of a Written Note It can be a simple" Thanks for the help" note or a full sonnet. A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime. The Gift of a Compliment A simple and sincere," You look great in red ,"" You did a super job ," or" That was a wonderful ...

... the harsh assessment but said that he believed he should be honest. The visitor was disappointed but asked the artist if he could take a look at just a few more, which were all done by a young art student. Rossetti looked over the second batch of sketches and immediately became enthusiastic over the talent they revealed." These ," he said," oh, these are good" He went on to say that the young student shows much promise and should be given every help and encouragement, as he may have a great future if he will study and work hard. The old man was deeply moved. Rossetti asked," Who is this fine, young artist? Your son ?"" No ," replied the visitor sadly." It is I-forty years ago. If only I had heard your praise then. For you see, I became discouraged and gave up too soon" Mother Teresa wisely said," Kind words can ...

... Enjoying What You Do Plato said that work should be play. Some airline employees are taking him seriously. After landing, one flight attendant announced," Thank you for flying Delta Business Express. We hope you enjoyed giving us the business as much as we enjoyed taking you for a ride" (I like the honest approach) As a plane touched down and was slowing to a stop in Washington, a lone voice came over the loudspeaker:" Whoa, big fella. WHOA !" (Who says you can't have fun with your job ?) One pilot made this weather announcement:" Weather at our destination is 50 degrees with some broken clouds, but they'll try to have them fixed before we arrive"" As you exit the plane ," a flight attendant said," please make sure to gather all of your belongings. Anything left behind will be distributed evenly among the flight attendants. Please do not leave children or spouses" And ...

... bike up a steep hill full of problems, work, and worldly concerns. Once you get going, however, you find that the ride becomes easier and easier. Soon you feel like you are flying along without even having to pedal at all. Soon you feel wind blowing in your face, joy filling up your heart, and love radiating from your soul. You find yourself laughing more, smiling more, and singing more. You find yourself sharing more, giving more, and helping more. You find yourself loving others, spreading joy, and living the way that God meant for you to live. You find yourself realizing that God is love, that life is joy, and that we are all God ’ s children. If you choose then each day of your life can become a fantastic ride of love and joy that takes you a little further along the road to Heaven. The longer you ride too the less steep the ...

... that I had !"" No, son ," said the father kindly." You didn't use all the strength you had. You didn't ask me" With that the father reached down, picked up the rock, and removed it from the sandbox. Do you have" rocks" in your life that need to be removed? Are you discovering that you don't have what it takes to lift them? There is One who is always available to us and willing to give us the strength we need. Isn't it funny how we try so hard to do things ourselves. Sadly, many adults who have been Christians for years are trying to do everything themselves and only turning to God as a last resort. God wants to be your first resort. Let Him help you with your trials, tribulations and temperament. He loves you so much... all He wants you to do is ask Him to help. When you are DOWN to ...

... again. That is what faith feels like to me. It is feeling loved, cared for, and watched over. It is knowing that no matter how painful or scary life gets you need only to call out to God and He will be there for you. It is having the gentle touch of His hand on your spirit and the loving whisper of His voice in your heart. It is even enjoying the delicious, ice cream filled days of happiness that He gives you here. Most of all, though, it is knowing that you are His Child. Your Heavenly Father loves you joyously, powerfully, and perfectly. Have faith in His love then. Rejoice in your birthright. And share your love with the world.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2009 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... escort boat. Others had urged her on, but in the fog they could not tell her how near she was to the coast. She later learned that she was less than half a mile from shore. When asked by a reporter why she gave up, Florence replied:" It was the fog. If I could have seen land, I could have finished. But when you can't see your goal, you lose all sense of progress and you begin to give up" On a warm, sunny day two months later Florence Chadwick swam the Catalina Channel, handily beating the men's record. Only when she kept her eyes on the shore did she eventually arrive there. Keeping that goal constantly in sight will get you where you want to go.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2008 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... words, drive out the undesirable nail, the behavior you'd like to change, with a better one. One woman did just that after lamenting to her friend," I hate being late. It has been a problem for me all of my life"" Do you really want to change that habit ?" her friend asked. The woman said that she did and her friend responded," All right. Every time you're late for work or anywhere else, then give me $25"" I'd go broke !" she said." But I'll do $10"" It's got to hurt ," said the friend." Believe me, that will hurt ," the woman replied. They agreed that the money should be deposited in a jar and used for charity. In the first week, the habitually tardy woman made a concerted effort to plan ahead and she only paid $10 to her friend. The next week, $20. ...

... Don't Ever Stop Dreaming Your Dreams Don't ever be reluctant to show your feelings when you're happy, give in to it. When you're not, live with it. Don't ever be afraid to try to make things better, you might be surprised at the results. Don't ever take the weight of the world on your shoulders. Don't ever feel threatened by the future, take life one day at a time. Don't ever feel guilty about the past, what's done is done. Learn from mistakes you might have made. Don't ever feel that you are alone, there is always somebody there for you to reach out to. Don't ever forget that you can achieve so many of the things you can imagine. It's not as hard as it seems. Don't ever stop loving, don't ever stop believing, don't ever stop dreaming your dreams. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights ...

... Cool Heads And Warm Hearts If you've ever struggled making the right decision, you may appreciate this story: A young man seemed to take an unusually long time to place his order at the flower shop. When the clerk asked how she could help, he explained that his girlfriend was turning 19 and he couldn't decide whether to give her a dozen roses or 19 roses-one for each year of her life. The woman put aside her business judgment and advised," She may be your 19-year-old girlfriend now, but someday she could be your 50-year-old wife" The young man bought a dozen roses. He made his decision from both his head and his heart. Abraham Lincoln has been considered one of the greatest leaders of all time. He maintained a cool head, even under personal attack. Though constantly criticized in public, he rarely answered back." If I were to try to read, much less answer, all the attacks ...

... the whole family gathering to celebrate her 90th birthday in that nursing home cafeteria. The entire room was filled with love. In the last few years of her life, however, my Grandma ’ s mind started to fail her as well. Sometimes she would know us when we visited her and sometimes she would not. As she got worse and worse I would often just sit with her and hold her hand. Words were no longer needed. Her body may have given out and her memory may have left her, but in those moments I felt connected to her soul. I knew that her spirit would soon pass from this world, but I also knew that the love we had shared would live on in my heart always. Even now years after her death I still feel that connection. I still feel that love. It reminds me everyday that we are all one family in this world. We are all Children of God. We ...

... that when the stakes are really high, God doesn't necessarily expand the options. On the contrary, He more often narrows them down to just one. That is not an accident, it is God's design. Think of a time you may have been deeply lost in sin. At the point you realized you needed help, did your options expand or decrease? Based on my own experiences, my options decreased. There were only two choices: good or evil. Given my true heart and desire for righteousness, that choice became narrowed to one. The choices were to either reach for God, or remain entrenched in sin, something I wanted no part of. There are no coincidences when it comes to spiritual matters. The only confusion lies in our understanding of God's abilities, which are boundless! [by Melanie Schurr, Copyright 1998 (DWwriter @webtv.net)-from 'Daily Wisdom '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Do you honestly think those large boats are going to dig out of bed early in the morning when the baby cries? Or walk through a small birthday party without crushing at least three of the guests ?" And God smiled and said," They'll work. You'll see. They'll support a small child who wants to ride a horse to Banbury Cross or scare off mice at the summer cabin or display shoes that will be a challenge to fill" God worked on, giving the father few words but a firm, authoritive voice and eyes that saw everything but remained calm and tolerant. Finally, almost as an afterthought, He added tears. Then He turned to the angel and said," Now, are you satisfied that he can love as much as a mother ?" The angel shutteth up. This originally appeared in a newspaper column by Erma Bombeck. She was a well-known humorist and author. She died April 22, 1996 in San Francisco ...

... up in Spring and among the last to leave in Fall. Their sweet, gentle beauty always warms my heart, delights my eye, and brings joy to my soul. They literally fill the lawns and meadows at this time of the year and continue on throughout the summer in spite of the countless attacks from lawn mowers and weed killers that they must endure. I have loved dandelions ever since I was a little boy. I can remember picking handfuls of them to give to my Mom and seeing her beautiful smile when she smelled their sweet fragrance. I can remember too gathering hundreds of their blossoms so that my Grandma could make her famous dandelion wine. I can also remember using all the air in my lungs to help flower after flower scatter its seeds to the winds. I can remember most of all, however, just lying in the grass surrounded by these tiny, golden suns and wishing that summer would never end. As I look ...

... showed much work ," the aide pressed." That's true ," Lincoln said." But Dr. Gurley forgot the most important ingredient. He forgot to ask us to do something great" There is nothing wrong with average lives and average accomplishments. Most of the good of the world is built on the accumulated efforts of everyday people. But, as Lincoln seemed to know, a life should strive for some greatness. Are you part of a relationship that, if given more effort, could be outstanding? Or do you volunteer for an organization which is truly doing something excellent? Have you joined a cause that is attempting something great? Or have you ever said to yourself concerning a beautiful dream," I could never do that ," while knowing that if you were to attempt it and succeed, you just might accomplish something significant? If Abraham Lincoln is right, then every life should strive to reach a little further today than it did ...

... Thus, I could evict God from the courthouse, then from the school house, and then from the Houses of Congress. And in His own churches I would substitute psychology for religion and deify science. I would lure priests and pastors into misusing boys, girls, and church money. If I were the Devil I would make the symbol of Easter an egg and the symbol of Christmas a bottle. If I were the Devil I'd take from those who have and give it to those who want it, until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious. What'll you bet that I couldn't get whole States to promote gambling as the way to get rich? I would caution against extremes: in hard work, in patriotism, and in moral conduct. I would convince the youth that marriage is old-fashioned, but swinging is more fun; that what you see on television is the way to be; and thus I could undress you in public ...

... have My thumbprint upon you. You are a prince / princess, did you know that? You are My child, the child of THE King! I look at you and see a precious, priceless pearl. There is no ocean I would not swim, no mountain I would not climb, no price I would not pay to have you and to be with you and call you my own. I already have. I have done all that I could, given all that there is. I desire to be with you every moment of every day. How I long for you to talk to Me every day. My love for you never grows 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 ...

... he pointed to Jesus Christ, who can fill our vacuum, our being, in order that we may have the final assurance that our lives may have order-not chaos, full and not empty, pressurized, not a vacuum. Yes, God understands our make-up, our chemistry and yearns to have a relationship with you. A suggested prayer:" God, I ask You to come into my life today, and fill this thin flask that I am. Give this outer and inner shell of mine strength, comfort and the assurance that I am in harmony with You. Forgive me for being impure against a perfect God. Take control of my life so that I can live for You. I realize that reasoning has it's limits but faith in God has no limits. I thank You for supplying an answer to my feeble attempts in understanding myself. Amen !" [Contributed by George Prins-via Keith Todd] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All ...

... provider who meets all your needs. Matt 6: 11-33 My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. Jer 29: 11 My thoughts toward you are as countless as the sands on the seashore. Psalm 139: 17, 18 And I rejoice over you with singing. Zeph 3: 17 I will never stop doing good to you. Jer 32: 40 For you are my treasured possession. Exodus 19: 5 Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37: 4 For it is I who gave you those desires. Phil 2: 13 I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Eph 3: 20, 21 For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thess 2: 16, 17 I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Cor 1: 3, 4 When you are brokenhearted I am close to you. Psalm ...

... hook. My friend reeled out her pole and cast it out into the lake. Before we even knew it, the two of us were fishing! The people who were having a really great time were not our sons, but rather their mothers! This morning was supposed to be for them, but something had changed. For a moment it's almost like God said that this time was for us. My morning of selfless-sacrifice had transformed." Behold what God has given you this day, Cindy !" I said to myself-splendid memories of me, my pal and our kids being together. It happens so many times, the things I do for my family somehow turn out to be good for me too. We were laughing and smiling like little nature girls. Both of us prefer eating seafood not catching it but on this day, we were reelin ' 'em in! We prefer spas and fancy hotels but find ourselves camping several times ...

... car on a wrong turn or down a road less traveled. I find that the scenery is always a bit more exciting too when everything isn ’ t mapped out for you. In fact, life itself is full of wrong turns, missing maps, and frequent potholes. That is what makes it such an interesting drive. Thankfully, there is one GPS that we all can use when we find ourselves lost on this road of life. This GPS won ’ t give us a lighted map or step by step directions. It will, however, help us to make the right choices to get where we need to go. This GPS will even let us make a wrong turn if we want to, but it will always gently nudge us back to the right highway to take us home. This GPS is God ’ s love. God ’ s love is always there to nurture us and guide us as we travel on. It is ...

... you with singing. Zephania 3: 17 I will never stop doing good to you. Jeremiah 32: 40 For you are my treasured possession. Exodus 19: 5 I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. Jeremiah 32: 41 And I want to show you great and marvelous things. Jeremiah 33: 3 If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deutronomy 4: 29 Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37: 4 For it is I who gave you those desires. Phillipians 2: 13 I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Ephesians 3: 20 For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thessalonians 2: 16-17 I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4 When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you. Psalm 34: 18 As a ...

... Good Advice Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully. Marry a man / woman you love to talk to. As you get older, theirconversational skills will be as important as any other. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want. When you say," I love you ", mean it. When you say," I'm sorry ", look the person in the eye. Be engaged at least six months before you get married. Believe in love at first sight. Never laugh at anyone's dreams. People who don't have dreams don't have much. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling. Don't judge people by their relatives. Talk slowly but think quickly. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask," Why do you want to ...

... who became my Godfather when I was just a boy. It was our neighbors who first came to our aid when my childhood home later burned down in the middle of the night. When I was in high school it was our neighbor who gave me a ride to school every single morning. After moving in here I felt blessed to have first my Grandma and later my Dad as neighbors. It felt so wonderful as well to live in a neighborhood full of such giving and caring people. Over the years we have shared newspapers and helped each other with yard work. In the Winter we have pushed each other ’ s cars out of the snow and shoveled each other ’ s drives. It was my neighbors who helped me fix my wiring when I lost electricity and put in a new waterline when my old one broke. It was the neighborhood children that my own kids spent hours riding bikes with on all those sunny, summer afternoons years ...

... with me now as I write and share this with you. Ralph Waldo Emerson himself said that" All writing comes by the Grace of God, and all doing and having" The truth is that God ’ s grace isn ’ t just for helping you get through this life. It is for helping you to live it too. It is only with God ’ s grace that you can live fully. It is only with God ’ s grace that you can give totally. It is only with God ’ s grace that you can love unconditionally. May you always accept and welcome God ’ s love and grace into your life. May you always fill your days, your heart, and your soul with it. May you always find the greatest joy in life by sharing it with others as well.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph ...

... logged more than 5, 000 phone calls, with only 47 of those calls responding negatively. Commentator Paul Harvey aired the prayer on the radio and received a larger response to this program than any other program he has ever aired. Central Christian Church is now receiving international requests for copies of this prayer from India, Africa and Korea. Pastor Joe's prayer is reprinted here as an encouragement and challenge for each of us to stand for the truth of the Gospel when God gives us the opportunity.*PRAYER*" Heavenly Father, we come before You to ask Your forgiveness and seek Your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe on those who call evil good, ' but that's what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and inverted our values. We confess that: We have ridiculed the absolute truth of Your Word and called it pluralism. We have worshipped other gods and called it multiculturalism. We have endorsed ...

... was ahead and thanked his new friend again for the help. The trucker asked if he could make it home all right and, suddenly, a third voice broke in on the conversation:" Breaker 19, don't worry, good buddy. Go your way. I'll see him home !" Glancing in his mirror, he saw a livestock truck move into the exit lane behind the brown sedan. I think there are good people the world over. People who will gladly give that caring touch, a needed warm embrace or a patient and listening ear. They are like angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly. Look around. You're sure to see one. And look in the mirror. You might spot one there, too.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2009-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... God's Beauty Tips Please consider... For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For beautiful eyes, look for the good in other people. To lose weight, let go of stress, hatred, anger, discontentment and the need to control others. To improve your ears, listen to the Word of God. Rather than focus on the thorns of life, smell the roses and count your blessings, giving thanks for each one of them. For poise, walk with knowledge and self-esteem. To strengthen your arms, hug at least 3 people a day; Touch someone with your love. To strengthen your heart, forgive yourself and others. Don't worry and hurry so much. Rather than walk this earth lightly, walk firmly with determination and leave your mark. For the ultimate in business, casual or evening attire, put on the robe of Christ; it fits like a glove but allows room for growth. Best of ...

... a lifetime, and may even change a life. THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT A simple and sincere," You look great in red "," You did a super job" or" That was a wonderful meal" can make someone's day. THE GIFT OF A FAVOR Every day, go out of your way to do something kind. THE GIFT OF SOLITUDE There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others. THE GIFT OF A CHEERFUL DISPOSITION The easiest way to feel good is to extend a kind word to someone, really it's not that hard to say, Hello or Thank You. [Author Unknown-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... 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 may be the most powerful enemy of humanity. And it is an enemy all of us are intimately acquainted with. As James Bell writes," Fear is an insidious virus. Given a breeding place in our minds .it will eat away our spirit and block the forward path of our endeavors" Or, like someone else said," Fear is called the little death-it kills in tiny pieces" I received a letter from a woman who learned an important lesson about fear. She wrote that one of their children had died some months earlier. Then she said this:" My husband and I went to dinner last night, and .I overheard two ...

... ends either. God ’ s love not only produces the best work but also the best people. Father Ed was one of them. Thinking of Father Ed reminds me that we are more than just these bodies that carry us around. We are spirits dancing in the flesh. We are more than just the work we do. We are the love of God working inside of us. We are more than just these lives we live. We are the love we give and the joy we share every moment of them. God bless you Father Ed. We miss you.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2009 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... 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- ...

... when your face hurts and you have tears in your eyes. Wake up saying" Good morning God !" and throw in a" Thank you for my life !" as well. Pray all day long. Pray when things are going bad and when things are going great. Pray to always grow in love, joy, and oneness with God because that is what the feeding your soul is all about. This world is a never ending banquet of loving, sharing, giving, and living. Pull up a chair and enjoy the feast.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... " Above all be of single aim; have a legitimate and useful purpose, and devote yourself unreservedly to it" He could have said," Find your note and stay with it" I believe that is an important part of being happy. Like Helen Keller says, true happiness is attained" through fidelity to a worthy purpose" In music, staking your claim on one note will drive everyone around you nuts. But finding the right note in life, and giving yourself to it, can be a source of unending joy.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2009-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... a church. It said," Forgive your enemies. It messes with their minds" As I read this sign I felt a smile come to my lips, a feeling of delight come to my heart, and a long, deep laugh come from my belly. When I finally stopped laughing at the joyous humor on this sign I realized something. What it said couldn ’ t be more true. A person whose mind is full of anger, after all, gives anger to the world and expects anger in return. In the same way a person whose heart is full of hate, shares that hate with the world and expects hate in return. Likewise a person whose soul is full of hurting passes that hurt on to the world and expects to be hurt again in return. It is a horrible and vicious cycle that eventually destroys the person ’ s life and harms everyone he touches. It is forgiveness that breaks this cycle, however ...

... you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you are. So before you save the rain forest from the parasite of your parents ' generation, try delousing the closet in your own room. Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life has not. In some schools they have abolished failing grades, and they'll give you as many times as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life. Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off, and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND yourself. Do that on your own time. Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs. Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working ...

... again to his son." Time to go now ?" Again Todd pleaded," Five more minutes, Dad. Just five more minutes" The man smiled and said," okay"" My, you certainly are a patient father ," the woman responded. The man smiled and then said," My older son Tommy was killed by a drunk driver last year while he was riding his bike near here. I never spent much time with Tommy and now I'd give anything for just five more minutes with him. I've vowed not to make the same mistake with Todd. He thinks he has five more minutes to swing. The truth is, I get 'five more minutes ' to watch him play" Life is all about making priorities-what are your priorities? [Author Unknown-from: Aiken Drum] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... love and accepted with happiness until they circle the globe and find their way back to the one who started them. It is joy to start them, to be a part of them, and to complete them as well. They remind you that we are all" one" here and they fill your soul with God ’ s love and Heaven ’ s light. Start a few circles of kindness going today then. Share what you have and who you are. Give your food, your money, your time, your work, your love and your smile. Do so with a happy and peaceful heart. Let the good you do circle the world on the wings of love now and forever.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Choosing Confidence Carefully examining a display in the drugstore, a man asked the pharmacist," Do you really guarantee this hair-restorer ?" The pharmacist responded," Better than that, sir. We give a comb with every bottle" Wouldn't you love to have that kind of confidence? One man quipped," When it comes to believing in myself, I'm an agnostic" One of the greatest problems many people experience is lack of confidence. Some don't believe in their ability to speak in public, others are afraid to try something they've never done before, and still others do not have the confidence to overcome their shyness. Do you know that you can become more confident? One effective technique is to learn to do what you're afraid to do. I led a seminar a few years ago where I asked for three volunteers to speak to the group the next day. One young woman named Judy was the first to raise her hand. She ...

... rocked and cradled Erik in his arms for a moment, and then his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice," You take care of this baby" Somehow I managed," I will ," from a throat that contained a stone. He pried Erik from his chest unwillingly, longingly, as though he were in pain. I received my baby, and the man said," God bless you, ma'am, you've given me my Christmas gift" I said nothing more than a muttered thanks. With Erik in my arms, I ran for the car. My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying," My God, my God, forgive me" I had just witnessed Christ's love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, and a mother ...

... God has for us is so awe-inspiring. Why don ’ t we make the lives we live here awe-inspiring as well? The choice is up to us. Don ’ t live in fear then. Live in love. Don ’ t live in fear of God. Live in love for God. Don ’ t ignore the wonder and awe that is all around you. Become a part of it instead. Be the Child of God you were meant to be: giving love, spreading joy, sharing light, and inspiring awe.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... with wonder and awe at this beautiful world that we have been blessed to live in. It is never too late to fully live your life. May you live your own life as beautifully and wonderfully as a forest full of Autumn leaves then. May you share the color of your heart and light of your soul with everyone you meet. May you bless this whole world with your kindness, goodness, and oneness with God. May you live a life of such giving, sharing, and caring that even after you pass from this world what you did and who you were will continue to nourish the hearts and souls of those still here. May you live in love and joy today, tomorrow, and forever and may you always remember to jump in the leaves.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... better life we dream about. I want a better life too, but I don ’ t think that any of these things will help me to get it. I have tried a lot of them over the years and while they may make you feel better for a moment they don ’ t bring you the lasting happiness you want. I have found for myself that the only way to have a better life is to live a better life, and only way to give your children a better life is to show them how to live a better life as well. How do you live a better life? You start by living more for your soul and less for your wallet. You spend more time hugging and less time buying. You turn off the television and take a walk with your children. You smile more and worry less. You spend more time with your loved ones and less time at the office. You laugh longer and more ...

... lonely, loveless people -head down the road to HIS Home -and you will have a great day! Scripture:" And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love (1 Corinthians 13: 13)" Prayer:" Lord, it's almost Valentine's Day -and whatever my circumstances as this day approaches, please make it a day of sharing Your love with someone who's lost, lonely, or just feeling left out. Give me Your compassionate and caring heart today -and may I be aware of what I can do to lighten the heart of another on this special day, In Jesus ' Name, Amen"-Peggie C. Bohanon-[ by Peggie C. Bohanon. Copyright 2004, Springfield, MO-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... . The garden had grown so big. It seemed to stretch on forever in every direction. I looked over at my dad in despair and told him that there was no way I could ever water all of it. My Dad just smiled back and said not to worry because there were plenty of Children to help. When I looked back I saw that He was right. Over the endless garden there were thousands of boys and girls with buckets each pouring the life giving water on the thirsty plants. I woke up after that, but I didn ’ t need Sigmund Freud to tell me what this dream meant. God was just reminding me to keep pouring out His love and light to this thirsty world. It is a lifetime ’ s work, but there are plenty of us with light heats and full buckets ready to do it.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com ...

... ’ t own dogs once asked me why I would put myself through such pain. Why would I bring dogs into my home knowing that eight, ten, or fifteen years later I would be losing them to death? I couldn ’ t answer him at the time, but looking back on Buddy ’ s years with us I think I can now. A dog ’ s love is unconditional. It is pure. It is strong. It is blessed. It gives us such great happiness. It reminds us of what God ’ s love for us must be like. It shows us what our own love is capable of becoming. A dog ’ s love makes us better. If I have to suffer this pain then to have that love then I will do so gladly. Take care dear Buddy until I see you again. You made me better. You helped me to love. You gave me so much joy. I will ...

... to the window of my mind and shined His light through it. I remembered a flier at my daughter ’ s college calling for a winter coat drive to help the needy. Suddenly the toilet repair didn ’ t seem quite so urgent anymore. I never did find the handle I started looking for, but I did leave the closet with both arms full of warm coats to help some good souls get through some cold days. It ’ s wonderful how God always gives us what we need even if it isn ’ t always what we want. I had wanted to save a few dollars for myself, but instead God gave me the priceless gift of helping others. He took a moment of silly selfishness on my part and turned it into a wonderful chance to share, and love. I only wish that I had listened sooner to His soft whisper so that He would not have had to yell it out with a broken toilet and a ...

... Attracting People To You In West Virginia folklore there is a story of a country doctor who was called out to a holler late one night to assist a woman about to give birth. By the time the doctor arrived at the farmhouse, things had progressed to a point where the doctor asked the husband to help him by holding a gas lantern up high in order to illuminate the makeshift delivery room. Before long, the courageous mother delivered a healthy baby boy. As the father lowered the lantern, the doctor barked an order to keep the lantern aloft:" We're not done yet" Shortly, a second child appeared on the scene, a healthy baby girl. Shaken by the unexpected arrival of twins, the father heard the doctor say once again," We can't stop now. It looks as if it's going to be triplets" To which the stunned father, still holding the lantern high, replied," Do you think it's ...

... Paul as someone who had a white hot conviction for his mission. Whether spreading the Gospel to cities throughout the Mediterranean, promoting a new product, starting a business, running for office, or winning a game, all achievements in life begin with a positive attitude-the faith that we can do it. I've never stopped encouraging people to discover the power of a positive attitude. I spoke recently at a sixth-grade graduation ceremony and delivered one of the talks I've been giving for decades called" The Three A's: Atmosphere, Attitude and Action" We can choose to put ourselves in a positive atmosphere that encourages a positive attitude that leads to positive 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 ...

... , and also more smiles as well. It was always such a beautiful adventure in living. You could always feel the love and joy flowing from heart to heart and from soul to soul. I wish the world had more adventures of this type. We all need more adventures that excite our hearts and nourish our souls. We all need more adventures in becoming the people that God meant for us to become. We all need more adventures in loving, laughing, giving, and caring. We all need to share more smiles together, more hugs together, and more tears together. We all need more family dinners. We all need more simple evenings filled with talk and togetherness. We all need to spend more time remembering how we are all one family put here by God to love each other and to share joy with each other. I hope that all of your adventures are loving ones then. I hope that all of your adventures ...

... ABC's of Friendship A ccepts you as you 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. ...

... about it. Just how long does it take to really live the way that God always meant for you to live? How long does it take to say," I love you God. Thank you for my life "? How long does it take to say a little prayer for someone you care about? How long does it take to tell a friend," You are looking good today "? How long does it take to stop your child in the hallway and give them a hug? How long does it take to bend down and smell a flower as you walk down the street? How long does it take to scratch your cat ’ s chin or pet your dog ’ s head? How long does it take to share a warm smile and a heartfelt" thank you" with a cashier in a store? How long does it take to compliment a loved one, to share a laugh with a friend, and to think a ...

... put me to sleep like a lullaby. Looking back on those summer evenings from 35 years ago makes me wish that all of our moments here could be so sweet. I wish that all of our moments could be filled with such love, laughter, happiness, and togetherness. I know too that they all can ’ t be that way, but the truth is a lot more of them could be if we made the effort. God loves us and God has given each of us a wonderful and powerful gift called choice. We use this gift everyday of our lives. We use it moment by moment. Why not use it to create love and happiness? Why not use it to share laughter and togetherness as my family did on those summer evenings long ago? Leo Buscaglia wrote that:" Even for the longest lived of all, time of life is limited. Why not live it in joy ?" That choice is ours to make ...

... Break away from everything that stands in the way of what you hope to accomplish with your life. C -Create Create a family of friends whom you can share your hopes, dreams, sorrows, and happiness with. D -Decide Decide that you'll be successful and happy come what may, and good things will find you. The roadblocks are only minor obstacles along the way. E -Explore Explore and experiment. The world has much to offer, and you have much to give. And every time you try something new, you'll learn more about yourself. F -Forgive Forgive and forget. Grudges only weigh you down and inspire unhappiness and grief. Soar above it, and remember that everyone makes mistakes. G -Grow Leave the childhood monsters behind. They can no longer hurt you or stand in your way. H -Hope Hope for the best and never forget that anything is possible as long as you remain dedicated to the task. I -Ignore Ignore the ...

... just do my best to judge noone, love everyone, and share my joy with the world. Life I have found is too short to live any other way. You don ’ t have to be as old as you used to be either. God made all of us both ageless and forever young. By choosing love, joy, and oneness with God you can always keep growing younger and younger on the inside. By sharing that love and joy you can give your youth, energy, and vitality to the world. By living from your soul you can stop counting your birthdays, start living for eternity, and always know that you will never again be as old as you used to be.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... the rest of the way into the Metroplex. I owe a debt to those unknown truckers. Those men stopped to help what they thought might be a stranded traveler. Instead they paid a deep honor to a man who had done his duty. Those truckers understood duty, honor, and sacrifice. And their kindness helped my family to deal with its grief over the loss of our Father. Editor: This Veterans day, and every day, lets never forget to give thanks for the many men and women who have served their country-at great cost to themselves-for the common good of you, me, and millions of others for the past, present, as well as future generations. Also, lets all take time to show love for one another, as the truckers in this story did, on a daily basis." This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you" John 15: ...

... My Emotions. Together, you represent the Totality of God. So man-treat woman well. Love her, respect her, for she is fragile. In hurting her, you hurt Me. What you do to her, you do to Me. In crushing her, you only damage your own heart, the heart of your Father, and the heart of her Father. Woman, support man. In humility, show him the power of emotion I have given you. In gentle quietness show your strength. In love, show him that you are the rib that protects his inner self. Addendum-1 Corinthians 11: 12 (NKJ)" For as woman came from man, even so man also comes through woman; but all things are from God" [Author Unknown-from Kathryn Barnes (HeartWarming-William Rayborn)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... , after all. How did I get my fresh start then? Why, I simply opened my eyes this morning. You see, everyday of our lives can be a fresh start if we wish. Each new morning is another gift from God when we can begin again to clean our house within and to live our lives better than we did before. Each new day is a fresh beginning to choose love, create joy, spread laughter, help others, and give something back to the world. Each new moment is another chance to share a hug, a smile, a compliment, or an act of kindness. It doesn ’ t matter how many mistakes we have made, wrong turns we have taken, or days we have wasted. We all can begin again this morning, this day, and right now. God is there waiting to help us to live and love as we were meant to. There is an old saying ...

... , while with his other hand he would steady himself with his cane. A wide smile on his face, he would proceed down the hall, stopping at each wheel chair, or lounge chair. He would carefully pick out one flower to hand to each person. He had a few male friends there, but each lady he came to, he would plant a wet kiss on her cheek and place a rose in her lap. This he did until he had given out every last flower. What impressed me then, and the memory still lingers, is the sunshine that he brought into the place. He brightened the nursing home. He remembered how lonely it could be. Obviously it was no reflection on the staff. The look of pleasure he had on his face at seeing them again, was testimony enough to their good care. And they welcomed Uncle Bill's visit just as much as the residents did. The first time we took ...

... Boys Will Be Boys-( Merit badge for Mother ?) Try as I might to keep some sense of order and sanity at our house, I've just about given up. After all, I'm outnumbered. With two boys and one big husband, the testosterone wins three to one. It wasn't always like this. When Freddy and Brian were babies, they'd gurgle and cuddle and coo, and there was peace on earth. Then came the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, followed by the X-Men, and the Power Rangers, and now an eclectic mix of animated characters whose names I can't pronounce. As any mother of boys knows, things are never boring when these guys get together. Boys don't walk, they run. Loudly. With sound effects. The imagination is always going and the mouth moves right along with it. Boys don't play, they wrestle, grapple, challenge and hunt. Boys leave a trail wherever they go. Maybe ...

... look you would see the shining eyes of another Child of God and member of your family. Don ’ t be afraid then to build the bonds of love. Don ’ t be afraid to share yourself with others. You may even find yourself" enlarging your family" as you invite your fellow Children of God into your heart, soul, and life. After all, we were meant to love. We were meant to share joy. We were meant to give kindness to everyone we meet. Mother Teresa of Calcutta said:" Let noone ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God ’ s kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile" That is how my wonderful neighbor and her" adopted" family live and that is how I hope to live as well. May the same be true for you.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by ...

... I wanted and I slept all night long. Before I was a Mom; I cleaned my house each day, I never tripped over toys or forgot lullabies, I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous, I had never been puked on, pooped on, spit on, chewed on, peed on, or pinched by tiny fingers. Before I was a Mom; I never thought about immunizations, I never held a screaming child so the doctors could give shots, I never looked into teary eyes and cried, I never felt my heart break into pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt, I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin. Before I was a Mom; I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put it down, I never sat up late hours of the night watching a baby sleep, I never got up in the middle of the night to make sure everything was okay, I ...

... Bringing Harmony To Discord I once talked with a couple about their marriage. They completed personality" testing" and were discussing some differences that had frustrated them both over the years. I summarized some of those differences for them." You are sensitive ," I said to the husband. He nodded affirmatively." You try to keep harmony in the relationship. It is important to you that you don't have too much conflict, so you tend to give in often in order to keep the peace" He agreed." You like affection and will often reach out and hold your wife's hand for no reason at all" He smiled and nodded." And you remember birthdays and special days-these are important to you" He continued to smile and nod." And you particularly appreciate it when she says, 'I love you ' In fact, you need her to say that at least once a day"" EXACTLY !" he exclaimed ...

... chocolate, then lemon, strawberry, and vanilla. Everyone of them too melts in your mouth and makes your stomach sigh. After cake we all sit down for a long talk full of shared laughs and shared lives. Kai ’ s name rhymes with Hi and that is fitting because her every greeting is full of love and kindness. It doesn ’ t matter if it is me, the delivery man, or the dog next door. Kai is always ready to give a little joy to everyone she meets. Since she and her husband Sean moved here a few years ago they have made our neighborhood, our community, and our lives so much better. This is all the more amazing considering that the whole time I have known her Kai has been racked by terminal illnesses that have battered every part of her except her spirit. In the book" Tuesday ’ s With Morrie" author Mitch Albom writes about his visits to an old, ...

... Choices Some people sit, some people try; Some people laugh, some people cry; Some people will, some people won't; Some people do, some people don't. Some people believe, and develop a plan; Some people doubt, never think that they can; Some people face hurdles and give it their best; Some people back down when faced with a test. Some people complain of their miserable lot; Some people are thankful for all that they've got; And when it ’ s all over, when it comes to an end; Some people lose out, and some people win. We all have a choice, we all have a say; We are spectators in life, or we get in and play; Whichever we choose, how we handle life ’ s game; The choices are ours, no one else is to blame. [Author Unknown-from Christine, via William Brabant (the-inspired-buffalo @yahoogroups.com) ...

... could walk no more. Mom and Dad had no car -their wheels were two-legged ones, and so the young family walked A LOT! And Dad" carried" a lot -I know, because I was that little girl. I watched my minister dad" carry" lots of people -the sick, the grieving, the lonely, the troubled -with compassion, tenderness, and understanding. I have memories of a godly father, a man of prayer and the Word, giving a lifetime of service to the Lord he loved. Perfect? By no means. Loving? By all means. And so, when I relate to God, my Heavenly Father, I have a role model of an earthly father, who loved, taught, and nurtured me in the ways of the Lord. You may not -the father you remember may have been abusive, unloving, unjust, unforgiving -he may even have deserted you. That's unforgettable, but not unforgivable ...

... in a good listener. They seem to believe they should be completely self sufficient; that needing assistance is an unwelcome weakness. But others find great value in occasionally asking for assistance, and in offering it, too. Needing help, even once in a while, reminds them that they were not meant to journey this life alone. It is a group outing, not a private experience. Those who find help when they need it are fortunate. But those who give help generously are the most fortunate of all. Few experiences can produce a sense of joy and satisfaction like that of truly easing the burden of another human being, with no thought of return. Fact is. when we help someone else, we can hardly help but be happy. At those magical times we may wonder who really helped whom!~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2006 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational ...

... to become content with 'just who you are-no more, no less ' And that doesn't mean we never look at our neighbors and wonder why they aren't struggling financially, or wonder if we are good enough moms, or question why someone else's child got the scholarship and ours didn't, or a million other questions that cause doubts about our career choice. But I believe the definition of meekness as a 'gentle strength, really describes SAHMs. It takes a strength to give up-what many times was a satisfying and financially rewarding career-to stay at home with your babies. It takes a 'gentle strength ' to make yet another meal out of ground beef because it was on sale. It takes a 'gentle strength ' to not lose your cool when your baby has colic, or your toddler is having a tantrum, or your school age child has been called to the principal's office. It takes a 'gentle strength ' to be all things ...

... them will go on to an even greater life beyond this one. Don ’ t let yourself become an old dog in this life then. Let that young pup that still lives within you come out to play instead. Live from your soul and love from your heart. You were put here to learn, grow, and become. You were put here to create, enjoy, and delight in your life. You were put here to be the most loving, giving, caring, joyous, and beautiful person you can be. And you were put here to share that person with everyone you meet. Have the time of your life doing so and always remember that God loves you today, tomorrow, and forever.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Do you love me ?"" Do I love you? With our daughters getting married and this trouble in the town, you are upset, you are worn out, go inside, go lie down, maybe its indigestion"" Golde, I'm asking you a question. Do you love me ?"" You're a fool"" I know, but do you love me ?"" For twenty-five years I've washed your clothes, cooked your meals, cleaned your house, given you children, milked the cow. After twenty-five years, why speak of love right now? I'm your wife ," she said." But do you love me ?" Now Golde becomes reflective." For twenty-five years I've lived with him, fought with him, starved with him. Twenty-five years my bed is his. If that's not love, what is ?"" Then you love me ?"" I suppose I do"" It's nice to know" And it IS ...

... A Lighted World One grandfather asked his two granddaughters what they wanted for their birthdays." Give us a world ," they responded. Soon he deduced that what they were asking for was a globe. So Granddad happily shopped for a nice large, spinning globe that he was sure would make an attractive addition to their room. He waited for the inevitable sounds of pleasure as they unwrapped a beautiful globe he had selected. He sensed, however, that their enthusiasm for the gift was not as heart-felt as he had expected." What is the matter ?" he asked." I thought this is what you wanted"" Well, yes ," said one of them," but we were kind of hoping for a lighted world" Immediately he understood that what they wanted was a globe with a light inside." I can fix that ," he said." Let me take it back and exchange it for a lighted one" Unfortunately ...

... to do or say. But on his third advance the man realized that he was facing a mirror." Why ," he cried," it's only me !" He made a grand bow." Good to see you, old boy! Merry Christmas !" The whole store exploded in delighted laughter. And why not? Here was a man who knew how to laugh at himself! He accepted his problems and limitations with a grace and humor that was contagious. We're given the power of laughter, not only to laugh AT things, but to laugh things OFF. We'll always know difficulties and we will never be without our share of troubles, but the happy person learns how to laugh most of them off. And that's the reason they're happy-it's a laughing matter!~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... His father never asked about it again. Arthur learned that day why he had always been encouraged to tell the truth. There would come a time when he must be believed, and this was such a time. Because he had already earned his trust and respect, he knew his father believed him. From that day on he was determined, above all else, to live a life of integrity Unfortunately, we find notable examples of modern leaders in every field who give low priority to personal integrity. But we do not need saints-we need people like you. People who will be known for their integrity. People who will determine to be their best selves. People who daily earn the trust and respect of others, regardless of their age or station in life. People who insist on the importance of character. Our world does not need another saint. But it needs you.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright ...

... is also our love for God and God ’ s love for us. I can ’ t help but feel that Heaven must have been smiling down when this picture was taken. It was one of those glorious moments of love that God meant for us to live. Life is a series of pictures. It is moments of love chosen and cherished. It is wonderful memories created and enjoyed. It is instances when we share laughter, bring joy, offer kindness, give goodness, and deliver delight from our hearts and souls. It is times when we think, learn, pray, and grow. It is seconds when we finally begin to realize what we are truly here for and what life is really about. May all of your pictures be happy ones then. May they all be taken with love. And may you always feel Heaven smiling down upon them.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright ...

... her husband's faithfulness. You shall not lie to your husband, but you shall speak the truth in love. You shall also practice a quiet and gentle spirit. You shall not covet another woman's husband, her children, her friends, her house, her decorating style, her garden, her looks, her wardrobe, her possessions, her talents and gifts, her ministry, or any other thing that is hers; but you shall be content with all God has given you. [Author Unknown-from Denial Nichols] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... be graduating from High School next May. After turning 21 he will no longer be able to attend the special education program at the school he loves. Over the years, in spite of his Autism, he has grown into such a kind, happy, and caring young man. He is a joy to this world and I know too that his Mother and I aren ’ t the only reason he became the blessing he is. That is why I want to give a special thanks to so many who have helped him over the years. His beautiful sister has been a true angel in watching over him. I can ’ t thank her enough. His aide at school has been like a second Mother to him. God blessed us by sending her into his life. I thank too all of his teachers that showered him with praise and encouragement and allowed both his mind and spirit to grow. All the wonderful coaches who allowed him to ...

... A Second Chance" Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry" (2 Timothy 4: 11) Bertrand Russell, the British philosopher, once remarked that" One should always keep an open mind, but not so open that one's brains fall out" To give irresponsible people a second (or third, or hundredth) chance is often to risk the loss of some gray matter — or worse. But it can also be the right and sensible thing to do. Mark, later to author the gospel of Mark, had accompanied his uncle, Barnabas, and the Apostle Paul on a ministry journey that had taken them into Asia Minor (modern day Turkey). But for reasons unknown, he abandoned the group just when they were to enter the dangerous midlands and returned to his home in Jerusalem. Paul could not forgive him, and when Barnabas suggested they take Mark on the next ...

... Great Advice Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully. Marry a man / woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want. When you say," I love you ," mean it. When you say," I'm sorry ," look the person in the eye. Be engaged at least six months before you get married. Believe in love at first sight. Never laugh at anyone's dreams. People who don't have dreams don't have much. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely. In disagreements, fight fairly. Please No name calling. Don't judge people by their relatives. Talk slowly but think quickly. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask," Why do you ...

... just ordinary people doing ordinary jobs. The people that stand out are the ones that do their ordinary jobs with excellence. The difference in ordinary and extraordinary is just that little extra. It makes all the difference in the world. There are only a few superstar positions open, but there are many ordinary positions where we can perform extraordinarily. The key, as Helen Keller says, is to treat those humble things as though they were great and noble. When you give them the attention they deserve, then and only then do you get to do a few great things. The good news is that you'll be prepared because you did the small things first. When artists transfer a drawing to a large surface, like a wall, they often divide the painting into small blocks. Then they paint the blocks one at a time. I may not be able to paint an entire wall to exact detail, but I could paint a small block ...

... that is within each person we meet! Even strangers. Nobody would go unnoticed and everybody would count. Here is an exercise that may dramatically change your life: for one month treat everybody you meet as if she or he is the most important person in the world. The man sweeping the sidewalk, your spouse and children, a teenager in the neighborhood, the elderly woman seated across the aisle from you-honor that which is sacred in all of them. Give your undivided attention. By your words and actions, communicate to them all how important they are to you. Show them great respect and kindness. You may be amazed at what happens to your relationships! You may not single-handedly solve the problem of world peace-but in one small way at least, you will make a great difference. Namaste.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier Copyright 2007 (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] ...

... , and lovingly raised four sons. Then she helped to raise me and my brothers as well. I can still remember coming home after school to my Nanny ’ s old house. The dinners always smelled so wonderful. She always gave me a big Italian hug before dinner too with a smile on the side and a kiss for dessert. In the summers she would take her cooking skills across the road to work at the local 4-H camp. The campers would always give her and the other cooks a standing ovation at the last meal. I would sometimes sneak into the kitchen at work to grab a roll and a quick hug before going off to play. Nanny would always slip me a quarter to buy a pop as well. Nanny also had her tougher side. She had a temper. She could yell with the best of them. When people stole the dandelion wine she had sitting in the sun one day she taught us all a ...

... to show me how to live my own life all I have to do is remember how my Aunt lives her ’ s. She takes everything that comes her way with faith, humor, and joy. She learns from the problems and tough times she faces and uses them to grow even more loving. She rejoices in all the good times she receives and cherishes each moment with her friends, family, and community. She also uses her goodness, kindness, and giving heart to make the world around her a better place. Most of all she brings her love, joy, light, and oneness with God into the lives of so many others including my own. My Aunt will probably blush when she reads this, but every word is true. She would remind me, though, that we can all live this way too if we wish. Our lives, after all, are just the choices we make each day. May we ...

... The other man's parcel of land remained barren. After a week, the first man was lonely and he decided to pray for a wife. The next day, another ship was wrecked, and the only survivor was a woman who swam to his side of the land. On the other side of the island, there was nothing. Soon the first man prayed for a house, clothes, more food. The next day, like magic, all of these were given to him. However, the second man still had nothing. Finally, the first man prayed for a ship, so that he and his wife could leave the island. In the morning, he found a ship docked at his side of the island. The first man boarded the ship with his wife and decided to leave the second man on the island. He considered the other man unworthy to receive God's blessings, since none of his prayers had been answered. As ...

... five minutes trying to figure out what to do. Then, someone came up with the idea to make sure they included the Jesus decorations next year, but they were afraid they would forget, so they taped a big note on the top of the box-JESUS, NEXT YEAR. Then, they all felt better. Addendum-Do you put Jesus away in the attic until it is convenient to take him out and display him in your life? Do you give him time in your life after everything else is over and done with, or do you live each day of your life for him and trumpet to the world that He is your Lord and Savior? [Author Unknown-from Julie] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... . Minds are like parachutes. they function only when open. Ideas won't work unless YOU do. One thing you can't recycle is wasted time. One who lacks the courage to start has already finished. The heaviest thing to carry is a grudge. You don't learn safety rules by accident. We lie the loudest when we lie to ourselves. Jumping to conclusions can be bad exercise. A turtle makes progress when it sticks it's head out. One thing you can give and still keep. is your word. A friend walks in when everyone else walks out. The pursuit of happiness is the chase of a lifetime !!! [Jim / Carolyn Wheeler, from 'Sermon_Fodder ' (Sermon_Fodder @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... louder than words. The hardest thing to do is watch the one you love, love somebody else. Don't let the past hold you back, you're missing the good stuff. Life's short. If you don't look around once in a while you might miss it. A BEST FRIEND is like a four leaf clover, HARD TO FIND and LUCKY TO HAVE. Some people make the world SPECIAL just by being in it. BEST FRIENDS are the siblings God forgot to give us. When it hurts to look back, and you're scared to look ahead, you can look beside you and your BEST FRIEND will be there. Don't frown. You never know who is falling in love with your smile. What do you do when the only person who can make you stop crying is the person who made you cry? Nobody is perfect until you fall in love with them. Everything is okay in the end. If it's not okay, then ...

... full doing things I think I SHOULD do, I don't have time for the things I WANT to do, even if some of those things are important. It seems that I have a thousand deadlines to meet, and too often I can't find enough time to write, I skip my exercise routine, or I neglect uninterrupted time spent solitude and meditation. But it helps to remember a story about a young girl and her bank. The little girl's father had just given her a silver dollar to put into her bank. She excitedly ran off to her room to" deposit" the coin. However, in a few minutes she returned and handed the silver coin back to her father." Daddy ," she said sadly," here's your dollar back. I can't get it into my bank"" Why not ?" her concerned father asked." It's too full ," she said, obviously disappointed. Her father accompanied her back to her ...

... good-bye to Grandpa. She asked me" Do you know the most important body part yet my son ?" And I was shocked she asked me this now. I always thought this was a game between her and me. She saw the confusion on my face and told me" This question is very important. It shows that you have really lived in your life. For every body part you gave me in the past I have told you that it was wrong and given you an example why. But today is the day you need to learn this important lesson" She looked down at me like only a mother can. I saw her eyes well up with tears. She said," Son the most important body part is your shoulder" Was it because it held up my head? She replied," No, because it can hold the head of a friend or loved one when they cry. Everybody needs a shoulder to cry on ...

... see well enough to know just where to cross. Lightning flashed and he saw his way for the briefest moment. But the man was perplexed because there seemed to be more thunder than lightning. He was convinced that every lightning flash was followed by several loud peals of thunder. The poor man just stood at the edge of the stream in his confusion about how to proceed. He finally prayed," O Lord, if it is just the same to you, give me more light and less noise" The delegation clearly got the point that the president needed more solutions and less complaining-more light and less noise. Some people are more like light and others are more like noise. Some people shed light on solutions. Others only make a din about the way things are. Some people help us to see the situation more clearly. Others just sound off about who's to blame. Some people show a better way. Others clamor about ...

... Your stomach is tied in knots and you bang the dashboard with your fist. The problem is .most people jump directly from" A" to" C" They get stuck in traffic and become angry. They think the traffic jam made them upset. They don't realize that they didn't HAVE to get angry. They skipped an important step! Let's try it again:" A"-you get stuck in traffic." B"-you believe that you were given some unexpected and extra time to spend in solitude, to listen to a great tape or to plan your day." C"-the consequence is that you feel gratitude for the gift of time. I have a friend who is fond of saying," A traffic jam has no power to make us angry. It just stops our car" He is aware that between the activating event and the consequence is something that we control: our beliefs about what is happening ...

... rose, the church began to float. It left its coastal lot and started inward. It floated down the main street, turned a corner and eventually landed right on Sam's empty property. Sam gave in. He allowed the building to stay and, if you ask the members of North Carolina's Swanquarter United Methodist Church how they came to acquire their land, they may relate what Sam said about the transaction:" I guess if the good Lord couldn't move me to give the land to the church, he would move the church to the land" The member's persistence, combined with a little outside help, paid off. Persevere-you may be surprised at how your obstacles vanish!~Steve Goodier~[ by Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... found that by watching the marbles diminish, I focused more on the really important things in life. There is nothing like watching your time here on this earth run out to help get your priorities straight"" Now let me tell you one last thing before I sign-off with you and take my lovely wife out for breakfast. This morning, I took the very last marble out of the container. I figure if I make it until next Saturday then I have been given a little extra time. And the one thing we can all use is a little more time"" It was nice to meet you Tom, I hope you spend more time with your family, and I hope to meet you again here on the band. 75 year Old Man, this is K9NZQ, clear and going QRT, good morning !" You could have heard a pin drop on the band when this fellow signed off. I guess he gave us all a ...

... for it. He doesn't care if we are in a pleasant or a foul mood, for He understands far beyond our own realm of understanding. He wishes so much to be a part of our lives-for us to invite Him in. He is always happy to see us and loves it when we love Him. He is so forgiving of all our shortcomings and always wraps his loving arms around us. He is there to wipe away our tears and to give us strength. He is there to share in the joyful moments of our lives and to get us through the painful ones. It is such a wonderful feeling to know that I can cozy up on the chair in the den with my dog and he just wants to be with me. He loves me for who I am and always looks at me with adoring eyes. It is such a wonderful feeling to know that I can sit and talk to God and He just ...

... bring you the joy you seek. It is these many loving choices that bring you the love you need. It is these many Heavenly choices that bring you the oneness with God you desire. It is these many choices that allow you to smile and forgive instead of stewing in your anger when someone hurts you. It is these many choices that allow you to laugh and love instead of despair when things go wrong. It is these many choices that allow you to give joy and goodness to others instead of always trying to get things from them. All of life comes down to the many wonderful choices we make each day. Let's use them to choose a lifetime of love, joy, peace, happiness, goodness, delight, and oneness with God for ourselves. Let's use them to bless the world, help others, and bring truth, joy, love, and light to everyone we meet. [by: Joseph J. Mazzella ...

... . Three of the most important words in the Bible are:" God is love" Every moment we spend living in love then is a moment spent living in oneness with God. Try to spend and share some moments for love in your own life today. Pet your dogs, cuddle your cats, and feed the birds. Hug your loved ones, look them in the eye, and say" I love you" Smile at the cashier in the store, give a compliment to a friend, and share a good laugh at work. Open a door for a stranger, help an elderly person with their bags, and do a few random acts of kindness when noone is looking. They only take a few seconds each day, but they bring you joy for a lifetime. It takes so little time to live in love. It takes so few moments to share that love with the world. It is these moments, however, ...

... true of opportunities to serve Christ. God often opens doors-opportunities to speak up for Him, opportunities to minister to someone who is hurting or in need, opportunities to make an influence on the world around us. If we allow them to pass by (perhaps because we are waiting for something easier to come along ), we may miss out on them altogether." Continue praying, keeping alert, and always thanking God. Also pray for us that God will give us an opportunity to tell people his message" (Col. 4: 2-3a, NCV)" Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6: 10). May you take advantage of the doors God opens for you this day! [Alan Smith (Boone Church of Christ, Boone, NC)-from Andy Chap] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved ...

... to register to vote, how to balance a checkbook and how to apply for a job. But, I am never to ask if they are in this country illegally. I am to check their heads occasionally for lice, maintain a safe environment, recognize signs of potential antisocial behavior, offer advice, write letters of recommendation for student employment and scholarships, encourage respect for the cultural diversity of others. And, oh yes, teach, always making sure that I give the girls in my class fifty percent of my attention. I am required by my contract to be working, on my own time, summer and evenings and at my own expense towards additional certification, advanced certification and a master's degree. I am to sponsor the cheerleaders or the sophomore class, and after school, I am to attend committee and faculty meetings and participate in staff development training to maintain my current certification and employment status. I am to collect data and maintain ...

... You need to bring some winter coats to a family in need. You need to cheer up a sick friend. You need to help a neighbor fix up their home. You need to hold a crying child in your arms and comfort them. You need to offer a word of encouragement and kindness to a hurting heart. You need to take the hand of a loved one and let them know just how much you care about them. You need to smile and give your joy to everyone you meet. You need to do the one thing that makes life worth living. It is, after all, what we are all here for.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella (joecool @wirefire.com)-{ used with permission}] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... to buy a blanket"" A blanket ?"" Yeah, an extra blanket for the couch. He just had a fight with his wife. I said to him, 'Well, your weekend's ruined, so you may as well go fishing" One thing leads to another. And that's the way it should work in our spiritual lives. As we grow and mature in Christ, we continue to add virtue upon virtue." But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love" (2 Peter 1: 5-7). Wherever you are in your spiritual life, I pray that you'll take a step up today, adding something that will make you a little more in the image of Jesus Christ. As you add one thing to another, you'll be closer to ...

... Remember The Duck There was a little boy visiting his grandparents on their farm. He was given a slingshot to play with, out in the woods. He practiced in the woods, but he could never hit the target. Getting a little discouraged, he headed back to dinner. As he was walking back, he saw Grandma's pet duck. Just out of impulse, he let fly, hit the duck square in the head, and killed it. He was shocked and grieved. In a panic, he hid the dead duck in the wood pile, only to see his sister watching. Sally had seen it all, but she said nothing. After lunch that day grandma said," Sally, let's wash the dishes" But Sally said," Grandma, Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen today, didn't you Johnny ?" And then she whispered to him," Remember, the duck ?" So Johnny did ...

... to chance. Remember to always reach for the best that is within you. Remember that nothing wastes more energy than worry Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck. Remember that the longer you carry a grudge, the heavier it gets. Remember not to take things too seriously. Remember to laugh. Remember that a little love goes a long way. Remember that a lot goes forever. Remember that happiness is more often found in giving than getting. Remember that life's treasures are people, not things. May God bless your day with peace, joy and love. [Author Unknown-from E-mail Ministry (http :// www.emailministry.org)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... . What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled; their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and it is now time to move on. When people come into your life for a SEASON, it is because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn. They may bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy .Believe it! It is real! But, only for a season. LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons -those things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person / people (any way ); and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. Some of you are more than friends -you are family. And some of ...

... Richness Of Living My aunt is really rich. She doesn ’ t have a big bank account, though. Still, I have known her to share the last penny in it to help someone in need. She doesn ’ t have a fancy, new car either, but she gets the most out of her old, used one giving rides to friends who can no longer drive themselves. Her home is no mansion. Yet, my childhood visits to it have filled my mind with treasured memories and my heart with priceless happiness. My aunt ’ s riches come instead from the places that high prices and inflation can never lessen. My aunt ’ s riches come from her loving soul, her generous spirit, and her joyous life. Every time I speak with her on the phone or get a card from her in the mail the richness of that life shines though. Her gentle laughter has brightened my day many times over the years ...

... so much better because of them all. They show us what Heaven can feel like even while we are still here on Earth. Henry David Thoreau said:" It is something to be able to paint a lovely picture, or carve a magnificent statue, but it is far more glorious to carve and paint the very atmosphere in which we live" That is what room brighteners do. That is what we all can do as well. We all have love to give, joy to share, and light to shine. We all can make this world a better place with our laughter, smiles, energy, and vitality. We all can grow in oneness with God and bring Heaven to Earth everyday of our lives. God didn ’ t put us here to hide our light. God put us here to share it with the world. May you always shine your light then. May you always make every room you enter a little brighter ...

... unbelievable! He put the catch on his stringer, hurried to rebait his hook, and Tried his luck again. Once again he felt a stinging sensation in his hand as he threw his hook into the pond. He didn't have time to worry about it. Within just a few seconds, he had another huge fish. He fumbled the next time he baited his hook-his hand felt numb and stiff. But Sammy was too excited about catching another fish to give it much thought. At the end of only an hour of fishing, Sammy had caught eight large fish. This was definitely his best fishing day ever. He was so proud of his accomplishment that, even though there was plenty of day left to fish, he threw the heavy stringer of fish over his shoulder and dashed down the dirt road toward home to show off his catch to his mom and dad. The local sheriff happened to drive up alongside Sammy and started ...

... was my Aunt and my Dad who kept me sailing on through the heartbreak after my Mom and Grandma died and back towards a joyous horizon once again. There were my two brothers and three children who taught me how to find the joy in life even on the fiercest days when the waves crashed against my ship. There were my teachers, neighbors, and friends who showed me the many ways to steer my boat into the peaceful harbors of love and happiness that life gives us. Each and everyone of these people taught me a little more about sailing the ship of my life. Each and everyone of them showed me as well to always look towards God ’ s North Star and to always set my sails with the winds of His love. May all of you always sail on towards greater love and joy in your own lives. May all of you always bless those around you with trails of light and gladness as well. But most of ...

... learn in, to grow in, and to love in. Don ’ t rush through them. There is no place that you need to be except where you are right now. You were meant to experience life, to cherish life, and to enjoy life: not to hurry through life. Your life is meant to be a journey of love and happiness not a race to some unseen finish line. Take your time and rejoice in every second that you are given here. Then when you look back on the life you have lived you will see a million moments of love and not a blur of wasted years.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2008 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... Putting It Out There We used to play spin the bottle when I was a kid ," says comedy writer Gene Perret." A girl would spin the bottle, and if the bottle pointed to you when it stopped, the girl could either kiss you or give you a nickel. By the time I was 14, I owned my own home" Gotta admire persistence. Because rejection is hard to take. Especially when it comes from someone you know. Or, come to think about it, someone you don't know. And we all want to be appreciated. We like being valued for what we do and who we are. American football coach Bum Phillips lives in a world where one can become a hero or a heel in an amazingly short time. One mediocre season and a coach, even a good one, can be out of a job. Like Phillips once said," There's only two kinds of coaches-them that's ...

... stumbled into an open grave. He tried to climb out but the walls were too slippery. Again and again he fell back into the grave. Finally, in exhaustion, he settled in a corner to wait for sunlight-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 ...

... homemade spaghetti sauce. It hasn ’ t been easy. My first attempt used far too much parsley. My second attempt had way too much sugar. After that I put the recipe aside and went over to my Dad ’ s house for some hands on instruction. After watching my Dad put it together I brought the pot home to try again. I didn ’ t slow cook it long enough, though, and it came out watery. I was about to give up after that, but then I remembered something my Dad had told me. He had said that there were a lot of different ways to make the sauce depending on how you wanted it. I remembered too how my Grandma ’ s and Dad ’ s homemade sauce was never exactly the same from one meal to the next. Sometimes it was slow cooked with sausages, meatballs, chicken, and potatoes simmering in it all day long. At other times it was cooked ...

... now connected by air travel, satellite dishes, telephones, fax machines, 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 ...

... on government property. On Tuesday the same people all said 'God help us all ' while thinking 'Thou shall not kill. On Monday people argued with their kids about picking up their room. On Tuesday the same people could not get home fast enough to hug their kids. On Monday people picked up McDonalds for dinner. On Tuesday they stayed home. On Monday people were upset that their dry cleaning was not ready on time. On Tuesday they were lining up to give blood for the dying. On Monday politicians argued about budget surpluses. On Tuesday grief stricken they sang 'God Bless America. On Monday we worried about the traffic and getting to work late. On Tuesday we worried about a plane crashing into your house or place of business. On Monday we were irritated that our rebate checks had not arrived. On Tuesday we saw people celebrating people dying in the USA. On Monday some children had solid families. On Tuesday they were orphans ...

... too I have realized something. I am only one voice in millions out there writing, speaking, and singing out the beautiful truth for all the world to hear. I often see the others online, in newspapers, on television, in books, and even on the street. Some have become rich and famous for the work they have done, but most like me are just delighting in freely sharing the wisdom, joy, love, and light that God has given them. Now I find myself happy to be a part of a new choir that is doing all it can to bring the glorious music of love to this world. I hope that you will join it as well. You may be just one voice among many, but if you share your soul ’ s song you can add so much to the choir. It doesn ’ t matter either if your voice or life is less than perfect. If you sing your song ...

... us into the next. The second truth I know that fills my life with peace is the fact that we all can choose and share love as well. We may not always be able to love each other as God loves us, but we can have the time of our lives trying. There is nothing that brings you more happiness, greater joy, and more peace of heart than sharing your love with everyone. Love is the hardest thing in the world to give away, though, because it keeps coming back to you as well. Loving others is what we are meant for. It is the Way of Life that Jesus showed us all. It is the only thing that matters. The next time you feel troubled then hold up those two fingers and remind yourself of what can truly bring you peace. God loves you and is with you always. Take peace in His love and then go out and share your own love, ...

... succeed. Eagles do not eat dead things. They feed only on fresh prey. Vultures eat dead animals, but eagles will not. Steer clear of outdated and old information. Always do your research well. Eagles love a the storm. When clouds gather, the eagles get excited. The eagle uses the storm's winds to lift it higher. Once it finds the wing of the storm, the eagle uses the raging storm to lift him above the clouds. This gives the eagle an opportunity to glide and rest its wings. In the meantime all the other birds hide in the leaves and branches of the trees. We can use the storms of life to rise to greater heights. Achievers relish challenges and use them profitably. The Eagle tests before it trusts. When a female eagle meets a male and they want to mate, she flies down to earth with the male pursing her and she picks a twig. She flies back into the ...

... Please Don't Wake Him Up A man was giving his testimony at one of those old Salvation Army open air street meetings. As he was testifying, a heckler in the crowd yelled," Why don't you shut up and sit down? You're just dreaming" Immediately that heckler felt a tug on his coat. He looked down to see a little girl, who said." Sir, may I speak to you? That man who is talking up there is my daddy. Daddy used to be a drunkard. He used to spend all of the money he made on whiskey. My mother was very sad and would cry most of the time." Sometimes when my daddy came home, he would hit my mother. I didn't have shoes or a nice dress to wear to school. Now look at my shoes. And see this pretty dress? My daddy bought these for me" But the little girl wasn't through with that heckler ...

... a storm while Jesus was asleep in the boat. When the Disciples felt threatened by the storm, they began crying out to Jesus for help, being afraid of the present danger. When the storms of life invade our peaceful world and corrupt our lifestyle, if Jesus is in the boat with us, He makes it easier to swim in the calm of His peace than to fret about the dangers that surround us. With Him there with us, He will either give us peace in the storm, or calm the storm. [by: Lawrence Brotherton-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... created it. This was the night sky that our ancestors had gazed upon for thousands of years. Under this wondrous blanket of light I felt covered with God ’ s love. I was as comfortable, safe, and happy as a child tucked in their bed at night, and even with a cold, wintry wind blowing across my face my soul still felt warm. All that I could do was look at those glowing stars, smile, and thank God for giving me a chance to live in a world of such beauty, such joy, and such love. God loves us all so much. He created this glorious world for us to live in, to grow in, to learn in, and to love in. Take the time to enjoy it, cherish it, and care for it. Take the time to walk in the woods, swim in the ocean, and look up at the stars. Take the time to ...

... while I was still in bed. There's a hint of spice and cinnamon brought by the morning breeze, And there's a touch of red and gold appearing in the trees. Days are growing shorter now and nights can bring a chill. The squirrels are hiding acorns in the woods beside the mill. Mom's making apple cider and filling mason jars. September nights have been so clear you can see a million stars! It's harvest time upon the earth, a time for giving thanks, For these, the living treasures, we never find in banks. God showers us with blessings sometimes great, sometimes small. And for these, the living treasures, we praise Him for them all! [by: Clay Harrison-from 'Aiken Drum ' (Aiken @AikensLaughs.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... and never comes back. Customer: Got it. Hey! My HEART is filling up with really neat files. SMILE.MPG is playing on my monitor right now and it shows that WARMTH.COM, PEACE.EXE, and CONTENTMENT.COM are copying themselves all over my HEART! CS Rep: Then LOVE is installed and running. You should be able to handle it from here. One more thing before I go. Customer: Yes? CS Rep: LOVE is freeware. Be sure to give it and its various modules to everybody you meet. They will in turn share it with other people and they will return some really neat modules back to you. Customer: I will share LOVE. Thank you for your help. [Author Unknown-from Marge] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... to him," Don't you see how you are poisoning your soul with this success-oriented way of life? Your idea of happiness is to stay up all night studying for an exam so you can get a better grade than your best friend. Your idea of a good marriage is not to find the woman who will make you whole, but to win the girl that everyone else wants." That's not how people are supposed to live ," the sage admonished." Give it up; come join us in an atmosphere where we all share and love each other" The young man had completed four years at a competitive high school to get into Stanford, plus two years of pre-med courses at the university. He was ripe for this sort of approach. He called his parents from Tokyo and told them he would not be coming home. He was dropping out of school to live in an ashram (a spiritual retreat). Six months later ...

... cowered and wished for the bosoms of their wives and children. Death was upon them and Goliath was ready to drink blood. Suddenly a red haired boy, barely weighing 90 pounds, bravely steps forward. He is a shepherd boy of 9 or 10, and his only weapon is a crude slingshot containing several smooth stones. The boy's name is David. David advances into the valley beneath the giant shadow." I will face you, and the Lord God shall give me your head this day ", David says confidently. Goliath howls in laugher as do all the soldiers." What ?! Do you send a boy dog to face me, have you no champions ", he growls? David responds," I am the Lord's Champion and this day shall I take thy head from thee !" Goliath lifts his massive shield and sword off the cart, the horses neigh wildly in fear. Swinging the huge steel blade overhead, it slices the air ...

... in his community and in this world everyday of his life. One of the greatest things about my friend ’ s investments too is that we all can make them. I intend to make as many of them as I can every chance that I get. There is no risk involved either. Henry David Thoreau said," Goodness is the only investment that never fails" Invest in some goodness today then. Help a neighbor. Share some laughter with your friends. Give a smile to everyone you meet. Take your wealth of love, joy, and oneness with God and invest it in everything you do. I guarantee you that the return on your investments will be incredible and your compound interest will be out of this world. You might even become a goodness billionaire like my friend. He knows as well as anyone what the true riches of this world and the next world really are.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: ...

... little girl ’ s heart, she was loved and received attention from the most important person in her life! God is that way. He doesn't push us aside because he has more important things to do. He doesn't make us have to be impressive in our speech so we can be heard by him. He doesn't ask us to get our problems and our world in the right proportions. In fact, when we come into His presence, He 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 ...

... It Starts With Listening I believe the highest compliment my child ever gives me is when they come to me with a problem or want to talk about something that is really important to them. I know that they have many choices about who they share their thoughts and feelings with. When they were in elementary school their mother or I most often heard about the events and concerns that were nearest their heart. But as they got older and our parental ears were more and more often replaced by their friends and classmates, teachers and coaches, and I know that we were increasingly left out of the loop. It's not easy, but it's natural. Since the opportunity doesn't come as often as it once did, when it does I want to make it count. I may not get another chance for a while. Unfortunately, two very normal responses can make a mess of things in a hurry. Number One: I love them more than ...

... all the pleasures you and he had often shared, You are filled with sudden anger -for his death you weren ’ t prepared. All those dreams of pleasant leisure as you reach your senior years: All those plans of fun together, just bring on a flood of tears. When your head ’ s upon your pillow, and you try your best to rest, It is then you hear him whisper:" Our Lord knows what is best. Don ’ t give up, my darling partner. I will always be around. Carry on as though I ’ m with you. There ’ s a new life to be found" It is then, when all is darkness, and life ’ s at its very worst, You can feel his words of comfort, like a rain cloud that has burst, Start to heal your heart that ’ s broken. As with tears your soul ’ s awash, There ’ s a stillness ...

... are always around us. The love of God is always within us. Our problem is that we all too often walk away from this love and try to ignore it. We want to make it on our own and live our own lives. In the process we forget the love that created us, the love that surrounds us, and the love that only wishes to guide us to never-ending joy. Don ’ t walk away from the love that God gives to you. Embrace it and welcome it into your heart again. Remember everyday just how much God loves you. Then go out and share that love with the world. And if you stumble and fall on your journey towards Heaven today, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and begin again. Know that God will always love you. God will always forgive you. And God will always hold your soul tenderly in His loving arms.~Joseph J. Mazzella ...

... who first returns bearing his burden like a king should" In a spirit of friendly competition, the brothers set out together. Soon they overtook an aged woman struggling under a burden that seemed far too heavy for her frail body. One of the boys suggested that they stop to help her. The other protested:" We have a burden of our own to worry about. Let us be on our way" The objector hurried on while the other stayed behind to give aid to the aged woman. Along the road, from day to day, he found others who also needed help. A blind man took him miles out of his way, and a lame man slowed him to a cripple's walk. Eventually he did reach his father's advisor, where he secured his own burden and started home with it safely on his shoulders. When he arrived at the palace, his brother met him at the gate, and greeted him with dismay. ...

... a pan of cool, salted water. If it sinks, it is fresh, but if it rises to the surface, throw it away. Cure for headaches: Take a lime, cut it in half, and rub it on your forehead. The throbbing will go away. Don't throw out all that leftover wine: Freeze into ice cubes for future use in casseroles and sauces. If you have a problem opening jars: Try using latex dishwashing gloves. They give a non-slip grip that makes opening jars easy. Potatoes will take food stains off your fingers. Just slice and rub raw potato on the stains and rinse with water. To get rid of itch from mosquito bites, try applying soap on the area and you will experience instant relief. Ants, ants, ants everywhere. Well, they are said too never cross a chalk line. So get your chalk out and draw a line on the floor or wherever ants tend to ...

... Hard Won Wisdom Theodore Levitt, of the Harvard Business School, said," Experience comes from what we have done. Wisdom comes from what we have done badly" Theodore Levitt sounds like a wise person. I wonder what he's done badly. Based on his reasoning, I must be bursting with wisdom. Over the years, I've racked up an impressive number of things that haven't gone too well. But put another way, wisdom is what the school of life gives us with every poor report card. Wisdom is hard won, and it is often birthed in the ashes of failure. One man tells of meeting one of the truly" wise" ones among us on a flight to Florida. He was preparing his notes for a parent-education seminar he was to conduct there. Bessie, an older woman sitting next to him, explained that she was returning home after having spent two weeks visiting her six children, 18 grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren ...

... , until winter, until you are off welfare, until the first or fifteenth, until your song comes on, until you've had a drink, until you've sobered up, until you die, until you are born again to decide that there is no better time than right now to be happy. Happiness is a journey, not a destination. Work like you don't need money, Love like you've never been hurt, And dance like no one's watching. God has given each of us a" gift" that we are to use to glorify His name! Do you know yours ??? [Author Unknown-from 'E-Mail Ministry '] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one which has been opened for us. The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've every had. It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it, but it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives. Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they'll love you back! Don't expect love in return; just wait for it to grow in their heart but if it doesn't, be content it grew in yours. It takes only a minute to get a crush on someone, an hour to like someone, and a day to love someone, but it takes a lifetime to forget someone. Don't go for looks; they can deceive. Don't go for wealth; even ...

... Hated Potatoes A kindergarten teacher decided to let her class play a game. The teacher told each child in the class to bring along a plastic bag containing a few potatoes. Each potato will be given a name of a person that the child hates, so the number of potatoes that a child will put in his / her plastic bag will depend on the number of people he / she hates. So when the day came, every child brought some potatoes with the name of the people he / she hated. Some had 2 potatoes; some 3, while some had up to 5 potatoes. The teacher then told the children to carry with them the potatoes in the plastic bag wherever they go (even to the toilet) for 1 week. Day after day passed by, and the children started to complain due to the unpleasant smell let out by the rotten potatoes they were carrying. Those children having 5 potatoes really began to feel ...

... Healthy self-image Here are 10 suggestions to help you develop and maintain a healthy self-image. Read them slowly. Meditate on them regularly. Hate your sin, but never hate yourself. Be quick to repent. When God gives you light, walk in it. Stop saying negative things about yourself. God loves you and it's wrong to hate what He loves. He has great Plans for you, so you're in conflict with Him when you speak negatively concerning your future. Never be afraid to admit that you've made a mistake and don't always assume that when things go wrong, it must be my fault. Don't meditate excessively on what you've done, right or wrong; both of these activities keep your mind on you! Centre your thoughts on Christ. Listen, You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind {both its inclination and it's character} is stayed on You (Isa 26: 3 AMP). ...

... physical body and you have prayed but God has not healed you yet, you are in a holding pattern When you are having problems with your children and you have put them on the altar, but God has not delivered them yet, you are in a holding pattern. When you have been praying for the salvation of a loved one and they have not been saved yet, you are in a holding pattern. When you are in a broken relationship and you have given it over to God, but it has not been restored yet, you are in a holding pattern. When the doors slam shut before you can knock on them, you are in a holding pattern. When we are deep in the belly of a difficult situation, there are no interruptions. God has our undivided attention. All we can do is sit, think, meditate, and pray. We cannot run from God because there are no Mountains that are high enough ...

... Her Name Was Rose The first day of school our professor introduced himself and challenged us to get to know someone we didn't already know. I stood up to look around when a gentle hand touched my shoulder. I turned around to find a wrinkled, little old lady beaming up at me with a smile that lit up her entire being. She said," Hi handsome. My name is Rose. I'm eighty-seven years old. Can I give you a hug ?" I laughed and enthusiastically responded," of course you may ," and she gave me a giant squeeze." Why are you in college at such a young, innocent age ?" I asked. She jokingly replied," I'm here to meet a rich husband, get married, have a couple of children, and then retire and travel"" No seriously ," I asked. I was curious what may have motivated her to be taking on this challenge at her age. ...

... During the past 30 years, people from all civilized countries of the earth have consulted me ," he said." Among all my patients in the second half of life-that is to say, over 35-there has not been one whose problem in the last resort was not that of finding a (spiritual) outlook on life. It is safe to say that every one of them fell ill because he had lost that which living religions of every age have given to their followers" A healthy person is not one with a certain lifestyle, a certain income or certain favorable circumstances. A healthy person is usually one with certain attitudes. Positive mental attitudes and fruitful spiritual attitudes are part of it. One might say that a robust spiritual outlook is good health insurance.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2009-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... goodbye to me. Then I started back to meet the other students a little warmer at heart if not in body. As I was turning the corner, though, a voice called out from an alley." Hey man! Want to get high ?" I smiled without looking over and said," No thanks. I already am" No drug in the world can ever match the high that comes from one kind act, one shared laugh, one second of giving love, or one moment of making God smile. Kindness is Heaven ’ s high.~Joseph J. Mazzella~[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright 2009 (joecool @wirefire.com)-submitted by: Joseph Mazzella] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... saddlebag and pulled out a sawed-off shotgun." Son ," he said," you ever kissed a mule ?" Looking first at the shotgun, then at the spot where the mule's tail is attached to its body, the young cowboy got the message." Nope ," he answered," I never kissed a mule. But I always wanted to !" Desire is another word for wanting to do something. And in real life, desire is not something that can be given by anyone else. If there is something you want to do, it is probably not because somebody is holding a gun to your head. You just want to do it. Your desire comes from the inside. If you decide you want to improve, if you want a meaningful relationship or more fulfilling work, if you want a rich spiritual life or a healthier body, then the desire must come from your own heart. Nobody can make you want those things. ...

... about a man by the way he handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. Age 52 I've learned regardless of the relationship with parents, you miss them a lot after they die. Age 53 I've learned that making a living is not the same thing as making a life. Age 58 I've learned if you want to do something good for your children, improve your marriage. Age 61 I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. Age 62 I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catchers mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back. Age 64 I've learned if you pursue happiness, it will elude you. But if you focus on your family, the needs of others, your work, meeting new people, and doing the best you can, happiness will find you. Age 65 I've learned whenever I decide something with kindness, ...

... , but in my ears it will always sound like birdsong. My little singers are helping me to remember something very important as well. They are reminding me that I still have my own song to sing in this world. I still have a lot of joy left to spread. I still have a lot of love left to share. I still have a lot of life left to live. I still have a lot of goodness and oneness with God left to give to everyone I meet. I don ’ t want to die full of regret because my music was still inside of me. I may just be one, little bird singing in this vast world, but I am going to keep chirping away. I know that if you take away just one bird the song of life becomes less. I know too that if you add just one more singer this glorious song becomes so much more. I will be happy then to be ...

... which in reality was an imaginary circle around a golden statuette. The small statue the boy played with was actually the Oscar Clark Gable won for his performance in the 1934 movie It Happened One Night. When his mother told him the time had come to leave, the little boy asked the actor," Can I have this ?" pointing to the Oscar." Sure ," he smiled." It's yours" The horrified mother objected." Put that back immediately !" Giving the child the golden statue, Clark Gable said," Having the Oscar around doesn't mean anything to me; earning it does" The actor seemed to know that past success could be a comfortable hammock upon which he may be tempted to rest, rather than a springboard launching him to the next level. Biblical wisdom says," Do not cling to events of the past or dwell on what happened long ago" You may have learned to let go of past failures and ...

... in fact, weren ’ t even lit by me. They were lit by other shining souls I met along the journey of my life. The brightest flame they lit is the truth that God loves you, me, and everyone in this world. With this flame you can light enough candles to brighten the whole universe. Some of the other flames they ignited in me and that I want to pass on to you are these. Love is stronger than hate. Giving brings more joy than receiving. Forgiveness heals our hearts. Love and joy are both choices we make and gifts we share. Hate comes from ignorance, but love brings wisdom. We are all Children of God. And we should not only claim our birthright, but live up to it as well. We are all one family here and we should do our best to help each other ’ s candles burn as brightly and beautifully as possible. Take happiness then in lighting ...

... is only used in vain three times in the whole movie. The teens did admit there was a scene where a building and a bunch of people were blown up, but the violence was just the normal stuff. It wasn't anything really bad. Even if there was" just a little" stuff wrong, the special effects were fabulous and the plot was action packed. However, even with all the justifications the teens made for the movie, the father still wouldn't give in. He just said," No !" A little later on that evening the father asked his kids if they would like some brownies he baked-knowing they loved brownies? He said that he'd taken the family's favorite recipe and added" just a little" something extra. The children asked what it was? The father calmly said that he had added" just a little" dog poop. However, he quickly assured them, it was" just a little" ...

... as well as happiness. We do so even in the face of death. Some of the wisest, gentlest, kindest, most loving, and most joyous people I have ever known are those who have suffered the most. The only difference is that they used that suffering to help them to grow into the people God wanted them to be. What good is pain, suffering, and even death if we don ’ t use them to grow more loving, more giving, more compassionate, more peaceful, more joyous, and more at one with God? I think my Mother knew this as she battled cancer in her final years and faced death at such an early age. She blessed us all with her love, her joy, and her gentle laughter right up until her dying day. I only hope and pray that I can live my own answers as beautifully and wonderfully as she lived hers. May all of you lovingly live your ...

... Good luck. My heart goes out to you. Sincerely, Laura" Douglas smiled. He finally felt some real hope. And why not? Here was a person who also had cancer and knew she was 22 and working! If she could do it, so could he. Douglas found what he needed. He found the will to live. Little things make a big difference. Little things like kindness and encouragement and hope. Little things all of us can give. And it doesn't take much to make a big difference.~Steve Goodier~[ by: Steve Goodier-Copyright 2009-from Steve Goodier (LifeSupport @yahoogroups.com)] Inspirational Messages SkyWriting.Net All Rights Reserved. ...

... , your welcome, and I love you" It is passing on a few kind words, an honest compliment, and a bit of encouragement to those around us. It is taking a few moments everyday to say," I love you God and I thank you for my life" It is saying a prayer for a friend and doing all you can to help God make that prayer come true. It is doing what you are able, with what you are given, to make this world a bit more like Heaven. It is little things like these that make our days good and the world better. It is little things like these that make our hearts swell and our spirits sing. It is little things like these that put the life in living. To paraphrase the wise words of Og Mandino in his book, The Greatest Miracle in The World," Do all things with love: love for yourself, love for others, ...

... Lessons From An Oyster" There once was an oyster Whose story I tell, Who found that some sand Had got into his shell. It was only a grain, But it gave him great pain. For oysters have feelings Although they're so plain. Now, did he berate The harsh workings of fate That had brought him To such a deplorable state? Did he curse at the government, Cry for election, And claim that the sea should Have given him protection?" NO !" he said to himself As he lay on a shell, Since I cannot remove it, I shall try to improve it. Now the years have rolled around, As the years always do, And he came to his ultimate Destiny stew. And the small grain of sand That had bothered him so Was a beautiful pearl All richly aglow. Now the tale has a moral, For isn't it grand What an oyster can do With a morsel of sand ...

... Just One of Those Days Have you ever had" one of those days "? You know, the kind of day that begins with the ear piercing sound from an alarm clock? You just want to sleep a little longer. Just ten more minutes. You can't hit the snooze button because, afterall, that only gives you seven more minutes of rest. Suddenly you awake and realize forty-five minutes have passed. You should hav