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SUNDAY MORNING COMING DOWN: THE FOREMOST RESOLUTION

12/31/2016

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PictureHAPPY NEW YEAR FROM SYDNEY HARBOR
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
                                      - John 14:6




Pictured herein is the annual New Year's celebration in the harbor of Sydney, Australia adjacent to the unmistakable Sydney Opera Hall.  It is one of the earliest celebration each year due to the early arrival in its time zone and it is also one of the largest and most spectacular.  And, of course, citizens around the world, both in the city and in rural areas hold celebrations to ring in the new year and pray for better things to come. 

Many traditions have been created that are follow annually in addition to the fireworks displays.  Some believe in a meal including cabbage and black-eyed peas for good luck and money, others treat it as a special part of the Twelve Days of the Old English Christmas with the singing of carols up until Twelfth Night and, of course, many watch the "Ball" drop in Times Square accompanied by the timeless Guy Lombardo rendition of Robert Burns' Auld Lang Syne.

All of these as well as the many other traditions of cultures the world over are great events, but today many of us have forgotten the time honored tradition of making New Year's resolutions, resolutions to change something we do or bad habit that we have that works to keep us from being the best we can be.  It could involve diet, drink, time wasting, loss of productivity or anything that holds us back.  And the idea of a resolution is to put it in writing and use it to guide us in the upcoming year so that we can measure the progress we make.  It requires a seriousness of purpose, attention to detail and continuous follow up and measurement if we truly want to attain the desired goal and when we achieve the desired end we know we have accomplished something worthwhile and valuable.

But we can't leave it at that general level if we are believers and followers of the Christian faith, for as Christians we are expected to devote our lives to putting Jesus Christ first and living for Him. And that means in the context of this commentary that we need to renew by resolution our total commitment to Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord.  Since we are mortals, we will always make mistakes, but the point of including our allegiance to our faith as the foremost resolution helps us to quickly realize the errors of our ways and to redirect ourselves to things that are righteous and worthy of Him.  And with the Holy Spirit as our inner guide, we have the resources available to know what needs to be done, thereby living up to our commitment.

If you are a believer in Christ, a New Year's resolution to recommit to Christ is a perfect way to reinforce those things that you want to accomplish.  If you aren't a believer, might we suggest that you take a look at what Christianity is all about with an open heart and see what happens.  The Prince of Peace is here for all of us and He wants us all to inherit the Kingdom if we learn to know Him and what He has done for us.  After all, we have nothing to lose but lots to gain, for nothing is more important than gaining Eternal Life with all the joys and beauty it brings.  At least think about it.

Happy New Year, everyone.  Get those resolutions done and commit to following them every day of the year ahead.  We'll all be surprised about the positive impact they can lead to when we approach the next New Year's celebration.  God bless you all.


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HAPPY NEW YEAR, THE NEW YORK CITY WAY
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Auld Lang Syne: Nobody Does it Better Than the Royal Scottish Dragoons

12/30/2016

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The New Year is fast approaching and that means it's time to get ready for Auld Lang Syne, the poem set to music which reminds us that we need to remember our past as we strive into the future.  Robert Burns, the Scottish poet of the late 1700s, took an earlier poem, significantly modified and added to it to produce the current version which was put to the music of an old, traditional Scottish tune.  It's an appropriate tribute to use as part of our ringing in of the New Year.

Most of us have heard the timeless Guy Lombardo Orchestra version associated with the dropping of the ball and other such traditional events, but there is not rendition in this humble writer's opinion than that offered by the bagpiper corps of the Royal Scottish Dragoons.  Maybe it's because I am of Scottish heritage, or maybe it's because I associate it with the video version showing the beauty of the Scottish Highlands as the pipers play, but I get a tear in my eye every year at this time when I watch and listen to it.  It is a touching rendition and I truly love it.

Here's the link to the presentation found on Utube; I hope you'll listen to it and that it touches you as it does me. You may have to copy and paste it into your browser to view. In any event, it's a great part of the New Year's celebration and may you all have a blessed and prosperous 2017. 

https://video.search.yahoo.com/yhs/search?fr=yhs-mozilla-001&hsimp=yhs-001&hspart=mozilla&p=royal+scottish+dragoons+auld+land+syne#id=1&vid=b3cc5d09ab4e15d8b0cd559e34c7a8a9&action=click     

Here are the words in minimalist English (closest to the original Scots' wording) if you are at a function where they play the tune and you want to sing along:

                                                          

 Should old acquaintance be forgot,                            
 and never brought to mind?
 Should old acquaintance be forgot,
 and old lang syne?
CHORUS:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.

And surely you'll buy your pint cup!
and surely I'll buy mine!
And we'll take a cup o' kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
CHORUS

We two have run about the slopes,
and picked the daisies fine;
But we've wandered many a weary foot,
since auld lang syne.
CHORUS

We two have paddled in the stream,
from morning sun till dine†;
But seas between us broad have roared
since auld lang syne.
CHORUS

And there’s a hand my trusty friend!
And give me a hand o' thine!
And we'll take a right good-will draught,
for auld lang syne.
CHORUS


                 HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!








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TOP STORY OF 2016: THE RISE AND VICTORY OF TRUMP

12/29/2016

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There's a lot of conjecture out there this week, as there is every year at this time, concerning what is the top news story of the outgoing year.  2016 had many surprises and there are a number of big stories that one could choose, but this writer selects the Donald Trump story and those factors which finally arose to allow him to win.  It's quite a story and we could argue about it over a beer in a bar forever, but Trump and those things that allowed him to rise up combine to make a powerful choice.

What is meant by the Donald Trump story and the factors which arose?  Well, briefly they start with Trump's unorthodox style, his willingness to unashamedly say what he thinks and express it in a way that the average "Joe and Jill" can understand, his ability to address the issues that most Americans  are concerned with and his unbounded energy and ability to turn all situations to his competitive advantage.  Also, of course, were the inability of his opponents in the primary to get good footing with the exception of Ted Cruz; the lackluster and unpopular message, or maybe lack of any message, of Hillary Clinton; the President's delusions of leadership; the situation of the nation and the world which played into Trump's hands and, finally, the absolutely "in the tank" actions of what is supposed to be an unbiased and free press.

Trump is the man who read the tea leaves of America starting from his announcement for President when he grabbed the "bull by the horns" on the illegal immigration and migration issues and responded to what America was looking for.  Of course, it didn't hurt that most of his competition was completely under the spell of the Washington Establishment and their donor class which had just the opposite in mind from Trump's positions, but that wouldn't have been enough without a man with the self-confidence and personal financial resources of a Donald Trump.  It was a campaign like none other in American political history and with a strong supporting cast to masterfully keep it on course and on point it has likely changed the way America will look at political campaigns for the foreseeable future.

And now, before he has even taken office, Trump is showing just how serious he is about turning things around with our economy, bringing sovereignty back to prominence and providing a real reason for hope through honest change, not buzzwords and slogans.  It makes it clear that the rise and victory of Donald Trump for the myriad reasons that made it possible overshadows all other stories for 2016.  So let's look forward to a better future in 2017, knowing that this election was a victory for the average American, those who have struggled and often lost out to crony-capitalism and a political elite that is both out of touch and out of gas.  The times "they are a-changin" and the change will come fast in just a few weeks.  It's gonna' be a better year ahead.



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John Kerry Speaks and the World Laughs

12/28/2016

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Poor old John Kerry, the soon-to-be former Secretary of State, gave his final speech in his lofty position and, as always, added fuel to the fire created by Barack Obama when he turned our policy regarding Israel on its head a few days ago.  Kerry, the man who has made lots of money marrying into it, has jetted around the world spewing nonsense and now seeks some kind of legacy to leave behind.  So he went before the cameras to hammer Israel saying that Israel has a right to be a state but not a Jewish one.  He and his boss think that they have the right, using a thuggish UN as their push point, to tell Israel what and where it can build on it's own property. And Kerry is probably the least qualified man to ever hold his position and it clearly shows.

It wasn't long ago when President Obama authorized use of American funds to try and unseat the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, an illegal use of funds and he failed.  And recently this same President accused the Russians of interfering with our election with no proof provided, merely heresay.  So there is clearly a disconnect within the Administration, particularly with both the President and his Secretary of State, regarding the rights of a sovereign nation.  And for John Kerry to state what the rights of the Jewish State are, and how they are to be applied, is way beyond the realm of the office he holds as well as that of the President. It is clearly a decision for Israel herself, not America, not the UN and not the Muslim world.

The President-Elect, Donald Trump, spoke out on the situation today and advised Mr. Netanyahu to hang on, that the change of Administration would soon be here and with it would come a return to rational behavior with regard to our best ally in the Middle East region.  Even Egyptian newspapers criticized the Obama Administration, providing evidence that was cited by the Prime Minister that the UN move over the settlement issue was orchestrated with the full cooperation and coordination by the United States government with the Palestinian Authority behind closed doors.

It is sad to see the end of a Presidency which could have done so much to lessen the hate and discontent of the world which instead achieved just the opposite result.  The world, as well as the United States, are much more dangerous places than they were and it will take concerted action to reverse that trend.  First and foremost will be dealing with issues from a position of strength, not weakness, and working with, not against, our allies.  This will take long hours of hard work to rebuild and regain trust.  I will put my trust in Donald Trump to do what he says he will do and bring order back from madness, including the way we deal with our friends such as Israel.

And to Mr. Obama and Mr. Kerry I would suggest this.  Please, gentlemen, just go graciously into the sunset and become good private citizens again.  We've had enough and your time is up.  Learn to live with it.



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The Media Gets It So-o-o-o-o Wrong Again

12/27/2016

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I took a couple of days off for Christmas from my blog and from most of social media interface.  Sometimes the snark and sarcasm of social media just gets too much and, particularly at a time like Christmas, it's good to focus on the message of the day and have some time for peace, tranquility, love and joy instead.  I've always felt like if we could just celebrate the Spirit of Christmas year round, so many of the problems we face as a society could be readily overcome. But the really big problem is not social media and the supposed "fake news" sites that the mainstream reports on; no, the real problem is the mainstream media itself and its constant use of half-truths and falsehoods in the name of news.

A case in point was the report that came out on Christmas Day that the Republican National Committee was now treating Donald Trump as if he was Jesus, replacing the real Jesus himself.  Really, mainstream, you think that the Republicans are representing Trump as Jesus?  Now that's a stretch, even for you guys and it just shows how limited your understanding of the Christian faith and the Savior, Jesus Christ, truly is.

Here's the plain and simple truth for any who want to listen.  The birth of Christ, which is what we Christians celebrate on Christmas, represents the arrival of a New King, the King of Kings, the One who will ultimately save the world.  The RNC was merely celebrating that wondrous happening from two thousand years ago, nothing more and nothing less.  And while many of us certainly voted for Mr. Trump, we all know that he is not a god, but a mortal man, subject to the frailties and mistakes that we humans all will commonly make. We voted for him because, despite his human qualities, we believe that he will take many of the steps that America desperately needs to bring her back to high productivity and a better future for all.

So media, get your story straight for a change.  Better yet, pick up the Holy Bible and read the Christmas Story;  it might enlighten you. I hope each of you had a very special and Merry Christmas.  Now it's time to make those resolutions necessary to make your life better and more productive in 2017.  Put God in the equation as you make your resolutions and they'll truly be blessed.  Have a great day.


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THIS WEEK IT'S CHRISTMAS MORNING COMING DOWN

12/24/2016

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For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
                  - Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)


Those of you who read my Sunday blog know that I've entitled it Sunday Morning Coming Down, named for that great song sung by Johnny Cash and written by Kris Kristofferson of the same name.  The song talks about a man, waking up Sunday morning after a heavy bout of drinking the night before, having a couple of early morning beers to clear his head and then heading out down the street to the ringing of the church bells and the voices of children in Sunday school singing their songs.  He thinks back about those days long ago and feels alone.  I don't know if the song was written about Kris or Johnny or someone else in particular, but I know that the Christ Child born on Christmas over two thousand years offers an end to loneliness and emptiness for anyone who answers His call.

Christmas 2016 is at long last upon us, a day to celebrate the birth of Our Savior and a wonderful time to recommit ourselves and our lives to service in His name.  This day has been celebrated for centuries, but so often mankind has remembered the significance of it only to fall back into a lifestyle that is certainly not in tune with what He has taught and what He expects from us.

Now in this modern day, when so many think that mankind is capable of doing all things for ourselves, that a God is not needed and that there is no need to prepare for what comes after this life is done, it is easy to falter.  But think for a moment back to the words from the Bible above.  They were written over seven hundred years before the birth of Christ by the Prophet Isaiah, a Jew and a mortal human just like each of us, yet a man who was given the gift of prophecy from God.  His mission was to inform his people of what God had planned and nothing was more important than his prediction of the birth of Christ so far in advance.  Some listened, some did not but it came to pass just like he said it would, just like the destruction of Jerusalem and the fall of Israel did in the interim as well.

And now we find ourselves over two thousand seven hundred years after Isaiah and the Story of Jesus still captures many of us as it did in times past.  And, like times past, some listen and believe and others do not.  And that was designed to be by God Himself, for by giving us the gift of free will, believing or not is our choice, but only through that belief can we receive the gift that was the purpose of Jesus' birth, life and death - the gift of Eternal Life.

So on this Sunday Morning Coming Down, this Christmas Day, remember why He came, what He accomplished and what he has to offer each of us if only we make the decision to believe.  It's a personal choice, no one can make it for us, but it offers a future that makes any earthly dream look inconsequential.

Merry Christmas, everybody.  And may the light of Our Lord, Jesus Christ shine brightly on you this day and every day.






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Santa Needs "Goliath" to Help Him Through the Florida Swamps

12/23/2016

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Several years ago I first published the story which you are about to read.  I wrote it to reflect the uniqueness of the situation that Santa faces when he makes his trek through the inhabited parts of Florida's swamps and wet floodplains once again this year.  Yes, Santa goes everywhere, but he has to improvise his usual mode of travel down here in Gatorland.  And he also needs unique characters to lead him, such as a big and loving fellow named Goliath.  Now Goliath is a real character but, sadly, we lost him a number of years ago but his memory lingers on long in our hearts; he was one of the best friends we could ever have.  So when you read this story to children of all ages, take a moment to reflect on that great big helper for Santa, for like all of our animal friends, he was one of God's special gifts to us.  And Merry Christmas to all.
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Christmas Eve finally arrived and Santa was in a tizzy.  Weather was good over most of the world with the exception of the Sunshine State.  It was a real mess down there in Florida.  Santa’s regional weather elf informed him that Florida was under heavy fog with almost no visibility. It was thick enough to cut with a knife and it would be impossible for the reindeer to navigate parts of the state not having street lights.  Therein was a huge problem. 

Now many think that Florida is all beaches and big cities but, in reality, much of her inland area, the spine of a long peninsula, is open country with farms and woodlands, swamps and bogs, and the rolling hills of horse country. The swamp and bog areas teem with gators, black bear, poisonous snakes, a few of the dwindling Florida panther and other wild animals.  Most of the swamp country is dark, very dark, and without a full moon or manmade lighting to guide Santa how could he safely navigate the remote areas?  For you see, a hearty group of people live in these seemingly inhospitable areas and they have large families, including many boys and girls anxious for the arrival of Santa.

Venturing into an area like this without an expert guide is very dangerous.  And since Santa knew that he couldn’t fly with his reindeer into the swamp, he needed someone with appropriate transportation and knowledge of the area to expertly lead the way.  Being a smart and special fellow with fast recall of names and talents, Santa instantly came up with the answer to his dilemma.  He would call his old friend, Farmer McNab, who had lived on the edge of the swamp for many years.  If anyone knew what to do, it was Farmer McNab.

Santa placed a call that was quickly answered.  The connection was weak, however, because Farmer McNab only had a cell phone and the fog caused phone problems in these hard-to-reach areas with limited communication towers.  He must talk quickly before the signal was lost.

“Farmer McNab”, said Santa.  “I’m in a real jam.  As you know it’s Christmas Eve and I’m preparing for my all night journey.  The weather elf says I can’t fly into rural Florida because of the fog; it’s too dangerous”. 

Continuing, he asked for help, “I know you don’t want to disappoint your grandchildren, so I thought you might have a solution.  What do you think?”

Farmer McNab scratched his chin thoughtfully and replied, “Well, Santa, I certainly don’t want any children to miss out on Santa this year so if you can make it as far as Gainesville, I can help you from there.  You remember Little Jimmy? Well, he’s now a grownup with children of his own and he can help.  He’ll meet you in Gainesville with his Jeep and a special friend and they’ll make sure you complete your rounds.”

Santa was curious and replied, “What kind of special friend?”

Farmer McNab laughed saying, “Well, Santa, that’s your surprise.  Just trust me. Call me by cell when you’re nearing town and I’ll direct you to a safe landing place.  Ok, Santa?”
“Of course, Farmer McNab,’ he replied.  “I know I can count on you.”

That settled it.  Santa would fly by reindeer to Gainesville, land as directed, and meet the farmer’s son and special friend who would guide him delivering the presents to the little boys and girls in the wilder, more natural parts of Florida.  He looked forward to a different kind of adventure.

About twenty minutes from landing, Farmer McNab gave directions to a nice barn on the north side of the city, owned by his good friend Robert.  The reindeer would be tended well and bedded down to rest until Santa finished his rounds.

Jimmy was waiting for Santa with his four wheel drive Jeep and his special friend.  As Santa hopped off the sleigh, said goodbye to Rudolph and the others and grabbed his large sack of presents, he was nearly knocked down by a large animal who just wanted a hug and a slurp.

Briefly taken aback, Santa looked shocked and asked, “What in the world is it?  Is it a wolf?  Is it a bear?  Is it a pony?”

Jimmy just looked at Santa and laughed and said, “Say hello to my special friend, Santa.  His name is Goliath, and he is a one hundred and forty pound Great Dane. By the way, Santa, you need to wipe off the drool.”

Once Santa wiped the slobber and was over his surprise, he laughed so hard that his tummy shook and shook.  And Goliath licked him and wagged his big tail.  He took to Santa in an instant.

“He loves red, Santa,” said Jimmy, “and he really likes you.  And that means that he will
do whatever necessary to make you happy.”

Out of curiosity, Jimmy had his own question to ask of Santa.  This whole thing just seemed impossible.

“Santa, how in the world do you get all of your stops made in one night?  I mean, really, it will take us all night just to cover the swamp country.”

Santa winked and said, “Well, Jimmy, I’ve got one little trick that I‘ve been given.  But it’s only available one night a year and tonight is the night.  Since tonight is Christmas Eve, I can make time stand still.”

Seeing Jimmy’s questioning look he said, “Just wait, you’ll see when our rounds are done.”

Then Santa threw his toy sack in the back of the Jeep, hopped in the front passenger seat, and off they went.

“Where’s Goliath?” he asked.

Jimmy chuckled as he responded, “Look behind you, Santa.”

There sat Goliath right beside the sack of presents, looking through his big, sad and bloodshot eyes as if he would guard them with his life.  And he would, if necessary.

As they quickly left the city lights, they turned onto a bumpy dirt road that meandered into heavy woods and swamps.  In the thick fog it was eerie with Spanish moss dangling from the large oaks and cypress like spider webs.  Santa was glad to be with someone who knew where to go.  It never looked like this from the sky on a clear night.

“Ok, Santa,” said Jimmy.  “As I find a house deep in these woods, you need to get out the right present.  I’ll give you a name, and then you give Goliath the present.  He’ll do the rest. First stop is the Callahan family.”

They pulled up to a pathway leading through the woods.  Killing the engine, they could hear frogs, owls and insects chirping.  The fog drifted by in a cool mist and no other sounds were made.  Santa handed the present to Goliath, and he gently held it in his mouth as he headed off into the dark.

Santa worried, “Are you sure he’s ok?”

“Not a problem for Goliath”, chortled Jimmy.  “One time a big black bear approached him and getting closer, took one look and headed the other way. Even alligators don’t mess with him.  Did you know he can take down a three hundred pound wild boar all by himself?  He’ll be back in a moment.”

Sure enough Goliath returned a short time later, panting heavily with his tail wagging as he jumped into the back seat, dirty paws and all.  When he shook both Santa and Jimmy got a soaking from swamp water mixed with mud.

The trio covered the first part of their trek easily but then Jimmy stopped suddenly.  Santa couldn’t figure out why, but he would soon find out.

“Ok, Santa,” explained Jimmy.  “It’s time to change our set of wheels.  The Jeep won’t go any farther.  The paths aren’t wide enough.  Follow me.”

They walked through thick brush and brambles which suddenly opened into a small meadow.  In the middle was a storage shed.  It looked like a tiny haunted house in the dense fog.

When Jimmy opened the door, Santa was surprised to see an almost new, bright and shiny red four-wheeler.  It was perfect.

“I thought you’d like the red one for this occasion,” Jimmy laughed.  “And you even have a new version of Rudolph.  Goliath can find anything with his nose.”

Santa looked puzzled and asked, “What do you mean?”

“Well, Goliath won’t be riding,” Jimmy explained.  “He’ll be running in front of us leading the way, checking the path as we go.  If we get stuck in a bog or thick swamp, he will pull us out.  I told you he is my special friend.  There’s no better friend anywhere.”

Santa just couldn’t believe how much darker, wetter and spookier the deep swamp was compared to where they had been before.  They could barely see their outstretched hand in front of their faces and eerie bird calls and even the occasional alligator “bark” warned of possible danger at every turn.  The fog covered and gnarled trees resembled monsters waiting to grab anyone coming too close.

He asked Jimmy, “Are you sure people live out here?”

“Oh, yes” was Jimmy’s reply.  “People have lived out here for over one hundred and fifty years.  These folks are tough, deeply religious, know how to live off the land, and they love Christmas.  They just don’t like living around big crowds and they live off the land. They hunt, fish, make lures and rigs and guide tourists and sportsmen for their living.”

As they rounded a bend on the trail, suddenly the vehicle was stuck.  They were mired in deep mud and the four-wheeler was going nowhere.

Jimmy yelled, “Goliath”, and out of nowhere the trusted Great Dane appeared.  He was muddy and wet but happy.  This was the kind of place he loved.

Jimmy hitched him to the four-wheeler and Goliath pulled with the strength of an ox.  He easily towed the muddy vehicle to dry land again.  Jimmy quickly unhitched him and they were once again on their way.  And as before, Goliath could be heard panting but couldn’t be seen.

Suddenly off to the left they heard a horrible cry of a frightened animal.  Then just as suddenly, the roar of a bear bellowed.  Goliath instantaneously was off through the brush. 
While Jimmy and Santa saw nothing, they heard the brush and palmettos moving violently and the sound of animals fighting.  Jimmy recognized the sounds of Goliath.  He knew he was facing off with the bear as they circled one another like two prize fighters itching to find an opening.  The roaring reached a maddening pitch as each animal made an attempt to gain the upper hand.  There were howls of pain and then quiet.  And then, complete silence returned.

Santa was concerned. He asked Jimmy, “Do you think Goliath is ok?  Is there anything we can do?”

Jimmy just smirked and said, “I’m sure Goliath is fine.  Just wait a few moments and he’ll return.”

True to Jimmy’s word, Goliath returned in a few minutes, no worse for the wear except for some matted blood on his neck.  But there was something else.  Goliath was softly carrying in his mouth a small but terrified dog.  She was a cute little terrier and Goliath saved her life.

Checking him over with a night light, Jimmy found that the blood was not Goliath’s.  It was from his opponent.  Goliath’s imposing carriage and strength had won the night and Jimmy was proud of him.

Jimmy lovingly hugged and petted Goliath and his new friend and divided a large milk bone biscuit saying, “Good boy, Goliath, you are the best.  I don’t know where this little dog came from but you saved her. We’ll take her home to Little Jimmy as a special Christmas surprise.”

Goliath just looked at him with big sad eyes, gave him a sloppy slurp across the face, and continued to wag his tail as if he was saying he was King of the Swamp.  By golly, on this night he was.

They made over one hundred and twenty stops that night in the deep swamp.  Santa never saw a house, a light or a person but Goliath faithfully delivered the correct package to each one in record time.  And as he came back from the last house, Jimmy gave him a special treat.  It was a large piece of steak, which Goliath wolfed down in seconds.

Returning the trusted four-wheeler to the storage shed, they jumped in the Jeep for the trip home.  It had been a wild but interesting night.

As they reached Gainesville, Jimmy was worried about how much time they had taken.  He was expecting to see signs of the early morning sky at any time but they never came.  It was still just as dark as when they started.

Arriving back at the farm where the reindeer were resting, Santa couldn’t believe how things looked in the light.  They were covered with mud and were quite a sight.  Goliath was head to toe slime and muck and the Jeep looked like it was returning from a mug bog.
Jimmy’s friend Robert approached with hot coffee and fresh, homemade sweet rolls.  And for Goliath, he brought a bowl of what he called “swamp stew”.  Santa was afraid to ask what was in it, but Goliath gobbled it down in seconds.

Santa sat on a picnic bench for a moment to enjoy his coffee and sweet rolls.  Jimmy looked astonished.  How could Santa sit and relax when he still had the entire world to cover?

Santa read Jimmy’s mind and said, “Remember when I told you about my special gift of stopping time?  Take a look at your watch.”

As Jimmy peered at his watch dial he was shocked.  They left on their journey at 8:30 that night and it was now 8:35.  Time had indeed stood still.

Now Santa jumped up and asked if there was a place to freshen up a little.  He didn’t want to continue on his way covered with mud. Robert directed him to a bathroom and offered towels and anything else he needed. 

And then another surprise happened. Within fifteen seconds, Santa reemerged.  He was clean and spotless.  He had entered the rest room empty handed but returned clean and bright with no evidence of his filthy clothes or appearance.

“Oh, don’t worry,” Santa said with a grin.  “That’s another special secret that I have for Christmas.  It means I don’t have to worry about getting dirty.  I do this every time I go down a sooty chimney.  Fascinating isn’t it?”

The two men looked at Santa with amazement.  Even Goliath looked puzzled.  What a night it had been for all.

As Santa hitched his reindeer team and readied them for travel, he winked at Jimmy and Robert and said “So now you know I am the real deal.  No one will believe your story except for your dad, Jimmy, and Robert here.  So it’s best if you keep it to yourselves.  But now you know the truth about old Santa and the Christmas Spirit.  Keep it in your heart always.”

And he remembered Goliath as well saying, “I will always remember your wonderful job, Big One. I might call on you again if I need you.”

Goliath barked a hearty response in delight.

With a big “ho, ho, ho” and a “giddy up, go”, Santa and his reindeer, led by Rudolph’s guiding red nose, were off and quickly disappeared into the dark night sky.  The last thing Jimmy and Robert heard was a loud “Merry Christmas” and then he was gone.

Suddenly to the east the sky started to lighten.  Jimmy looked at his watch and it read 6:30 a.m.  Time had caught up. It only stood still while Santa was working.

Jimmy and his dad’s friend Robert were absolutely astounded.  Had this really happened or was it a dream?  And while they didn’t really know, they suddenly felt tired, as if they had been up all night. 

Getting ready to head for home with Goliath, Jimmy went to the rest room to wash up.  And there he found it.  A note written in longhand on special Santa Claus stationery was sitting by the sink.  Beside it was a large bone with a tag for Goliath.  What’s more, there was no sign of dirty clothing or a mess from the quick clean up.  All doubts vanished.  Santa was real and he had been here.

Getting home at sunrise, Jimmy felt more alive than ever.  His dad was waiting for him and said, “Jimmy, I know what you’ve been through.  Just keep it to yourself.  I had the same thing happen to me when you were little. Believe me, no one will believe you.  But the important thing is that you know and you believe. Never forget.”

As father and son sat down to breakfast with the rest of the McNab family, the Christmas Spirit was truly alive and had never been stronger.  Both men were lucky to have experienced it in a very special way, and they would keep it in their hearts forever.

And for all of you children of all ages reading this, remember that the reason for this wonderful season, the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, also requires us to have faith.  Take the birth of this baby boy who grew to be our King for Eternity on faith and believe it with all your heart.  You will then find it is indeed the key to all that is real.

I wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and wishes for the Star of Christmas to shine over you always. Ho, ho, ho.

Written by:
 
James Dick
www.northfloridawriter.com
Author of Honey, We Shoulda’ Bought the Ark
www.outskirtspress/honeyweshouldaboughttheark
Reissue for Christmas 2016

 

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A Christmas Funeral "Celebration": Because HE Lives!

12/21/2016

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Today I attended a funeral for an elderly man in our congregation, a man who was bedridden for a number of years.  I didn't know him well but his wife is a stalwart in our little church and some of us even consider her as a saint.  But I was concerned about the impact of the funeral on the Spirit of Christmas, especially for his loved ones since I lost my father during the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas many years ago.

The church was decorated for Christmas, with the advent wreath and candles still displayed prominently, poinsettias lining the kneeling rail and a table sized Christmas tree brilliant with its white lights and bows and a beautiful Christmas bouquet prominently displayed.  Someone thought that maybe the tree should be removed for the event, thinking it might be seen as a distraction from the somber nature of the service.  But we decided otherwise since Christmas, celebrating the birth of the One who allowed us the opportunity for Eternity, actually was a great back-up for sending off to the heavenly realm this good man, husband and father.

The music leader, a gifted musician both with voice and instrument, did a wonderful job of combining the joy of Christmas with the thank you to God for the life of a man who provided for his family, worked hard and honestly and now earned his rest with God above in Heaven.  And looking about the sanctuary, listening to the inspiring words of the pastor, and putting it all together in my mind, I knew that this funeral was representative of a life well lived, not something to be mourned, but something to be celebrated.  And the best way to express that to those who wonder is using the titles of the two hymns that we sang this day, Because He Lives and When We All Get to Heaven.

In case you don't know those hymns I will quote just a few words from them.  From the first, "Because He lives, I will live tomorrow" and from the second, "When we all get to heaven what a day of rejoicing it will be".  You see, because Jesus came to earth as a God and a man, lived to teach us, counsel us and serve us through His life and death for us, we are afforded the opportunity to live forever with Him if we accept His gift of eternal life.  And if we do, our life in heaven will be joyous beyond all imagination and it will be an amazing day of rejoicing when we arrive and see all those who we have missed for so long.  And in the case of that good man whose life we celebrated today, he is finally home with the Father, shouting with joy as he has finally entered the Promised Land, where there is no longer pain, suffering and sorrow. Yes, mourn the passing, but rejoice knowing that he is now in a place where glory never ends.

The Christmas funeral: a day to celebrate indeed and his Christmas present was finally entering the realm that only belief in Jesus Christ can deliver. And now he really lives.  Hallelujah!






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Christmas Approaches: Do You Hear What I Hear?

12/20/2016

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Picture
With only five days left until Christmas, the sounds of the Season fill the air. What, you say?  You don't hear them?  Well, then, just open your heart and let them in, for the Sounds of Christmas are both the sounds you hear as you go about the day but also the sounds that play in your head from your memories of Christmas throughout your lifetime.

They are the sounds of children laughing, happy and joyful in the splendor of this time.  They are the sounds of the cattle lowing and the lamb softly bleating for the baby nearby.  They are the sounds of the church bellls ringing in the news that Jesus Christ is born.

There are also the sounds of the choir singing and the musicians playing the wonderful carols of Christmas, as well as the sounds of reindeer hoofs walking on the roof high above after landing from flight with their sleigh, carrying the "HO HO" Santa from his house in the cold North to yours wherever that might be and there are the sounds of the baby crying as he strengthens his lungs preparing for his life ahead. And yes, there are the sounds of the little drummer boy beating out the rhythm of joy as he plays his best for the newborn babe.

Once you've experienced the sounds of Christmas and the ways that your imagination can enhance them, they are powerful, mystical and wonderful.  And they stay with you for a lifetime and grow as your experience grows.  The Sounds of Christmas leave a permanent and positive mark on your life and they serve to add to your experience of joy and love that the season brings.  So be silent, open your heart, your mind and your ears to the Sounds of Christmas, for we are now in the midst of truly the most wonderful time of the year.  Cherish those sounds and the joy they represent and you can keep them with you to use anytime you want for, after all, who says we can only celebrate Christmas in December?  Keep Christmas alive in your heart always.

God bless you and have a wonderful Christmas with all the sounds and the joy, peace and happiness they bring.


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Finally, the Election is Over; Let's Celebrate Christmas at Last

12/19/2016

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PictureCongratulations to the Trump Presidential Team
At long last, Election 2016 is over and Donald Trump will become President on January 20, 2017.  And finally America can put the long and arduous world of political combat behind her and focus on that most wonderful of days, Christmas, this upcoming Sunday.  We need to be thankful that the system which was so meticulously established by our Founders worked as it was intended, insuring that people from small states and rural areas had a voice in the results, something that the end of the Electoral College would preclude.  And after eight long years of an Administration which has operated under a "divide and conquer" mentality, we will finally bid to Barack Obama with the inauguration of Donald Trump.

I stayed away from Facebook, Twitter and real news that was called "fake news" and the "fake news" that was called real news for the last forty-eight hours.  I did so because I was sick of the garbage and hype about the crisis in the electoral college and the delusional claims of some that there would be a big surprise in many of the fifty state capitols today as electors cast their ballots.  But now, with the results in, I have decided it's time to come out and say my little piece and then get on with what is really important this week and that's getting excited about the event that we are preparing to honor.

With the voting completed by electors, Donald Trump received three hundred and four electoral votes, two rogue electors not voting.  Texas, an appropriate state, put him over the top and all of the threats, the warnings and the waste of time created by "sore losers" has been put to rest.  Hillary lost the election, she lost the legal challenges and, as I knew it would be, she lost the electoral college vote and in so doing she also garnered four less electoral votes than the election day results awarded, doubling the number of electoral voters declining to vote for Trump, two in Texas.

So now it's time for America to move forward.  To the victors on whose side I find myself, I say don't get cocky, just get to work to make sure the things that are done are what we voted for.  And to the losers I say get over it.  Your candidate was in the White House for eight years and although many of us didn't like him, we didn't try to shut the electoral process down and we didn't try to block access to state capitols of designated electors, which is something that your party did with the support of the Clinton campaign.  So get with the program and act like loyal Americans, fighting for what you believe in the right way, not with derision and violence.

I for one am tired of Election 2016 and am glad it is over, but I am also very thankful that Donald Trump has been elected, for the course we've been on was leading to disaster and it truly is time to make America great again, a land of opportunity for all of her citizens who are willing to work for a living.  And I will celebrate this election as a wonderful Christmas present for me and for those I love as well as all Americans who want to remain free. 

I wish Barack Obama no ill will, but I pray that he will have the common sense to go graciously into retirement out of the political limelight and let the incoming leader of the free world lead without interference from those who don't want to accept reality.  That would be best for him and his place in history and it will be best for the land we hold dear.

And, finally, I am glad that it will now be fashionable and not something to be scorned by an out-of-control political correctness crowd when all can say MERRY CHRISTMAS openly again. God bless America and may she ever be free.


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    ABOUT ME

    Hi, I'm James, a writer who studies nature,  animals and all things created by God. I also write from time to time about what I think God expects of us.  I would love to hear your thoughts on these subjects. I hope you enjoy my comments.

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