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Back Again at Long Last: Hoping for a Better Year Ahead in 2021

12/31/2020

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New Year's Eve in Tokyo
Well, folks, I'm back after a multiple day period of no access to my website and just in time for New Year's Eve, so thought I'd write a little prayer this morning to wish us all better fortunes for 2021 since 2020 was filled with so much strife, sorrow and concern.  Only God knows totally why things have happened as they have, but if we turn our hearts to Him we can find the answers and with those answers we can truly live again as He wants us to do. But only if we listen.

Dear Lord in Heaven above,

We lift up our eyes to you and praise you for being the Almighty God that you are, always so filled with love and grace for us regardless of who we are and what we have or have not done.  You are our Creator and the giver of life and we honor you for giving us the most gracious gift that we could ever want, that precious gift of life itself and we can never provide the thanks to you at the level you deserve for this most precious of gifts.

But Lord, despite all of your kindness and love that you offered, we routinely fail you, for we so often put ourselves first, not you, and seek earthly things that in the final analysis have no lasting value.  So, we ask this day that you forgive us for those things we have done in thought, word and deed and show us the way to true happiness through the salvation that is offered from your only Son who died so that we might have the opportunity to live on for eternity once this earthly life is done. Help us to understand that to attain that level we must receive Him by believing in Him by faith alone.

Lord, we are troubled by the condition we find both the world and our nation in as we close out the year 2020 tonight, for we see so many things that are clearly wrong that have taken hold and it as if what is right is now wrong and wrong is now right.  Tyranny versus liberty; disease, both natural and with man-made interference and the resulting fear; and even the imposition of politically correct half and non-truths instead of real truth, have taken hold of us in so many ways and it is only through your love and grace and by our  believing in you based on faith alone that we can find the answers to these troubling situations. We also are realizing that we  can only  gain the level of discernment through this strong bond with you to separate fact from fiction and therein learn real truth.

Lord, help us to do these things to gain discernment, and with the discernment of what real truth is, to be courageous and fearless in tackling those issues head on before they overwhelm us.  After all, you gave us this world to maintain while living for you, yet we have faltered and allowed mere mortal man's supposed superior knowledge to outpoint you and your wisdom. Help us to unite with other believers and continue to build the faith to not only protect and guide our beloved United States of America, but to begin the process of leading the way for the world with the love that Jesus gave us, done with wisdom and grace.  Lead us Christian soldiers of goodness and light, together with other godly persons who all unite together to make this world continue in a way pleasing to you until the day comes when the Son will return again, to rule this world for one thousand years from the City of God, which is Jerusalem.

We ask this prayer in the name of our Savior, the One who lived as the perfect example for us and died for our sins,  Amen.

TO A BETTER NEW YEAR IN 2021 with the Lord as our center piece of life. Live it, love it and enjoy it as he wants us to.
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It Was the Day After Christmas........

12/26/2020

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A very cold day after Christmas in North Florida
.....and all through the house, not a creature could be located not even a mouse. But where, oh, where did everyone go? Why, they are all out at the day after Christmas sales. Many of us deliberately plan Christmas around that to find those bargains that weren't available earlier. We know that retailers depend on Christmas sales for, in some cases, as much as eighty percent of their revenue so, in a bad year, Christmas can be a disaster. And that means they will do whatever they must to get rid of inventory even if they barely make any additional profit.  It's truly a dog eat dog world for retail stores at this time of year and with the Covid menace draggin on and on, many will suffer.

So, while the fireplaces on a cold December 26th down here are really roaring, there is no snoring as most family members are running hither and yon to try and capture that one special something that they couldn't bear doing without this years But shouldn't there have been a different way and viewpoint this day? I mean really think about it. Sure Christmas is supposed to be focused on something so much different. After all, didn't the Lord Himself tell us that our focus is supposed to be on each other? Aren't we supposed to put the  Lord first? Yet we can hardly get thorough Christmas without again turning our focus toward more material things and less spiritual things of much greater and certainly more lasting value. For only eternity is forever and the latest fad goes with the next wind of new things.

I don't mean to sound critical but after watching so many bash the faith while still talking about Christmas in just a material way, I can imagine Jesus and the Father above are looking down on us with  a frown not a smile since so many have no concept of anything but what meets their instant desires. I think it's just a sad commentary of our world today which has put all things secular first while putting the Lord in the closet thinking He won't notice, when in reality He knows everything including every wish and desire.  Perhaps we can look at these things from the perspective of a possible resolution for the New Year coming next week.  Why not ponder that?

Despite my criticism of our modern ways, let me try and end this on a high note. All of us, good and bad, are sinners. We can't help that for it is just part of the human experience and God understands that. But maybe, just maybe, we can all focus better on what is expected of us, not so much what we want rather than need, and we can do better in the months of the year ahead. What if we limited our gifts in cost and scope and put the savings to use on something that would help those truly in need? Or with the savings on credit card interest we can gain by keeping things modest, just think what those dollars could do?  Even so, not everything has to be somber, for God wants us to have fun and enjoy things, too,  so perhaps what we need is just a little better balance. What say each of you?
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A SPECIAL PRAYER ON THIS CHRISTMAS DAY, 2020

12/25/2020

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PictureTHE REASON FOR THE SEASON
Today we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Sent to us as both a Man and God, he began His thirty-three years of life on earth before paying the ultimate price for us by facing a horrible death feeling all of the pain and suffering a man can face.  He was guilty of nothing but telling the truth, but yet He died so that each of us might have the opportunity to live forever if only we believe and follow Him by faith.  There could be no greater Christmas present that we could be offered, and so I thought it only appropriate to begin this day in prayer. And with it, I hope all will be infected by the Spirit of Christmas and what it really means.  Oh, the joy and future that His Truth can bring:


Dear Lord,  Thank you for the beauty and joy of Christmas and its celebration of the birth of the Christ Child, a birth which began the road to Salvation for mankind.  What's so remarkable about this gift is that you know we are unworthy and so often choose sin over goodness with the wrong choices made using our free will. That didn't stop you, however, from showing grace and mercy and opportunity for each of us to earn Salvation through believing through faith in Him and putting Him first in our lives. You knew our weakness and Jesus offered the only link that can change us if only we allow Him to do so.  And your love for us in allowing this event to unfold with lasting consequences felt the world over is what is really so important. He truly lives and will come again at a time you choose to reign the world in peace and tranquility for a thousand years.

Lord, it's  a very difficult thing for we sinners to change our ways. The concept is simple, but the action required is not, yet we ask that you open our hearts to the guidance available within us from the Holy Spirit.  And open our eyes so that we will see and fully understand that the Bible gives us the path to Salvation.  It is a book which talks to us, speaking your words clearly and fully understandable through practice.

We ask that you be with us in whatever we do, using the Holy Spirit to put us in touch with Jesus, our mediator with you in all things. Keep us strong, devoted and committed to the Truth, for only the Truth can lead us to breaking the chains of slavery, slavery to sin, which brings us down.  Real freedom can only come with the breaking of those chains and turning ourselves over to you. 

Mold us, shape us and direct us in becoming your missionaries on earth, a planet that has both much beauty and much which is ugly. We can make a difference in everything we do by representing your wishes. Small positive steps following your direction can lead to great and good changes of heart,  attitude and will all around us and we ask that you direct us as your will desires.

We ask this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, born this day so long ago in the most humble of situations to show the world what was really important.  Amen.


And wishing the merriest Christmas ever to each of you.  God bless.
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THE POWER OF PRAYER WILL AMAZE YOU.
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Santa Needs a Big Helper in the Florida Swamps

12/24/2020

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But Santa still needs a local guide. Who could it be?
 AN ANNUAL CHRISTMAS EVE TREAT FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES!!
 
AUTHOR’S NOTE:  Seven years ago, we lost our beloved Great Dane, Goliath, to a tragic accident.  He was, of course, a very big dog, sometimes made a mess and would take over the house if he could, but inside he was a big marshmallow and he loved us dearly. He was a rescue who was mistreated by a previous owner and we quickly came to understand him and love him back and enjoy his antics, including learning to be gentle with our other pets.  I decided to use him as a principal character in a fun, fictional fantasy about Santa meeting his obligation to the children of the swamps and bayous of Florida and other Southern states. Here once again is the story I've been posting since the year after his death. If you've read it, you might enjoy it again, especially with the children.  If you haven't read it, see if it doesn't bring a special touch to the many facets of Santa who we all love and especially appreciate on this day as he will begin his amazing flight around the world to bring something special to all little boys and girls who have been good.  This is my special gift to you, my readers and followers, and just one little way I can say how much I appreciate you. And, Goliath, wherever you are on the other side of the rainbow bridge, we will never forget you.  Merry Christmas, everyone. 

  _____________________________________________________

Christmas Eve finally arrived and Santa was in a tizzy.  Weather was good over most of the nation 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 because Rudolph's nose would be worthless. 

Now many people 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 man-made 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, he 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.  Okay, 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. Then he could be off for the rest of his deliveries around the rest of the world.

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 stunned, 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 sixty-pound Great Dane. By the way, Santa, you need to wipe off the drool.”

Once Santa wiped the slobber away 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 have been given, but it’s only available one night a year and tonight is the night.  Since it’s 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 sack of toys 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.

“Okay, Santa,” said Jimmy.  “As I find a house deep in these woods, you need to get out the right presents.  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 okay?”

“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.  He would quickly find out.

“Okay, 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 hands in front of their face in the blackness 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 complete silence returned.

Santa was concerned. He asked Jimmy, “Do you think Goliath is okay?  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 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.

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. And here's GOLIATH!
 
©James Dick, 2020, All rights reserved

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Goliath was a wonderful dog and we still miss him.
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CHRISTMAS MEMORIES: A Special School Project for Christmas

12/21/2020

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It was an evergreen like these, only larger.
One of my best memories of Christmas as a boy was helping my older brother find a Christmas tree for his high school homeroom class.  It was a different time back then, a time when you couldn't just ask your parents for money and you often had to use sweat equity to earn what you wanted.  It wasn't easy, but it usually turned out to be fun and worthwhile and it made us stronger, wiser and taught us the value of a dollar. And even the purchase of a Christmas tree by a group of high school students back in those days could be a big deal.

It was the late 1950s, my brother was a junior in high school and I was still in elementary school and Bobby came home from school just after the Thanksgiving holiday with a daunting assignment.  Following a school  tradition for Christmas at Newport News High, students in home rooms were divided into small groups, each with a specialized assignment based upon the luck of the draw.  His group was selected to provide the class Christmas tree.

Sounds easy, right?  Not so fast, for the rules of the game were specific.  You could not buy a tree, you could not cut a tree from property without explicit permission of the owner and the tree had to be at least seven feet tall, either a small, live evergreen or a portion thereof.
Gathering his fellow team members together that night they discussed their options.  The task was complicated by the fact that we lived in a small city, there were no open woodlands of any significance within five miles of the area and the preponderance of the land was in small to moderate sized city lots with little likelihood of finding what they needed.  And it was Thursday night and the tree had to be in the classroom no later than the following Tuesday morning, so they had to work fast.

I was sitting in with them since they said they would take all the help they could get, but I could think of nothing.  They adjourned looking down and dejected, but promised to gather again Saturday morning with a plan.  They didn't want to be the only group to fail in the class although they knew it would have been much easier had they gotten the assignment to provide decorations or such other items.  But alas, they had to work with what they had.

As I returned from school that Friday afternoon I found Mom standing at the kitchen window and gazing into the back yard.  And then I realize what she was looking at.  It was that big old evergreen over by the fence line that was now oversized and much too tall.  We looked at each other, she smiled and went back to fixing dinner while I went to do homework. At that moment, I knew exactly what she was thinking without here uttering a word. She was going to offer Bobby the top out of that large tree if he could get in down safely. As we sat down to dinner that night, Mom casually spoke.

"So, Bobby," she queried, "Did you have any luck on your tree search?"

"No, Mom," he said dejectedly, "and the guys will be here at 9 in the morning. What am I going to do?"

"Well," she said with a twinkle in her eye, "you better get whatever it is you need to cut a tree tomorrow 'cause you're gonna' cut the top out of our backyard evergreen. That tree is just getting too tall so there's your answer."

Bobby jumped up and ran over and hugged Mom, almost forcing her to spill the pot of soup. But he was excited and so was I and Mom just stood there chuckling. And after dinner, Bobby called his buddies and told them the news made some plans.  Mom and I only hoped that they knew what they needed and could figure out the right way to tackle the job.  She didn't want the top of that tree falling on the neighbor's fence since it was over thirty feet tall.

Saturday morning dawned dreary and gray with heavy laden clouds indicating the likelihood of snow.  Right at nine the group began to assemble.  Philip from down the street came up whistling jingle bells and wearing climber's boots and carrying a roll of strong rope and thick gloves.  Jerry came from the other direction with two different sized hand saws. I was tasked with being the "step-and-fetch-it" for the older boys, making sure they got anything they needed when they needed it.

Bobby bounded out the backdoor and greeted everyone then asked, "Has anyone seen Jack? We can't start without Jack."

"He'll be here", said Jerry, who lived close to Jack. "He was late coming in last night but I talked with him.  Don't worry."

The boys grabbed a football to toss around while awaiting Jack's arrival when suddenly we heard the noise of a loud engine and the shifting of gears.  Backing up the driveway to the point closest to the tree was Jack in his father's wrecker.  He set the brace on the back end and pulled the metal cable over to the tree for use.

Now that things were in place, the boys went to work. Philip, the most agile of the group climbed the tree slowly, trying to keep branches from smacking him in the face from the thick tree.  About four feet from the top he yelled down for the end of the two ropes that would be used as guidelines for dropping the tree safely. Jerry would man one and I would handle the second one, keeping a thirty degree angle from each in the general direction of where the tree would be cut to fall.  After several tries, we couldn't clear the thick needled limbs so Bobby climbed with ropes in hand and left them with Philip. He attached them to the tree about five feet from the top, then tossed the other end to the two of us waiting below and we held them tight. Then he hooked the chain to the tree a few feet below, dropped below the level where it could kick back on him. He focused on that for a moment while Bobby made sure the chain wasn't tangled in the branches before getting ready to cut. Meanwhile, Jerry and I made sure the two guidelines were taut.

When everyone said all was clear, Philip went to work with his hand saw.It took some time to get the cable over and around the branches but it worked and finally Philip was up to the original guideline.  He checked it for tightness, made sure the line was a straight shot down to Jerry, came down another two feet and hooked the cable to the trunk.  Then he climbed down another four feet and began sawing.  As he was working slowly on the thick trunk, he began singing a rather bawdy version of the Twelve Days of Christmas, eliciting a muttered comment from Mom who was outside with us and watching with a smile on her face. Later she would tell Philip if he sang that song at school he would likely get sent home from school. Then she laughed and walked back inside. We all knew that Philip would be Philip and so did Mom. That's why she smiled but Philip and all the neighborhood boys love Mom for she was always kind to all of them.from Mom which made him quickly stop.

As the saw neared the three quarter way mark on the trunk at the base of the tree, a slight cracking sound was heard and Philip yelled for tight lines, telling Jack to start to rewind the cable slowly on the tow line as the top began to lean.  Jack, Jerry and I got into a rhythmic pattern and Philip lowered himself down a few more seats to avoid being hit by the tree and he was right on mark, avoiding any danger as the tree began to fall, hitting a large bough then falling down to the ground.

We all cheered when the nine foot section of tree fell right where planned and I do believe I saw Mom sigh with relief, but it was ever so subtle.  Boy, were we proud of ourselves and felt like we were kings of the world. We trimmed the small branches and twigs near the base of the cut, stood it up in a ten gallon bucket containing sugar water and propped it up securely against the garage so it would stand and soak up the water to keep it fresh.  Jerry said his father would make a stand suitable for the classroom.  But for now, the tree would remain in the container until Monday morning when it would be delivered to the high school for display.

We awoke Sunday morning to snow, very unusual for coastal Virginia this early in the season.  And when we walked outside to look at the tree, it had been decorated by nature.  The rich green branches were decked out in a beautiful white coating of thick, wet snow and sitting on a number of the branches were a family of cardinals, the males showing their beautiful red against the green and white background.  What a glorious site indeed.

One of the older boys came by Monday morning to take the tree to school.  I even went to the high school PTA meeting with Mom the following night since the tree would be on display in Bobby's homeroom.  The parents of all of the boys were there to compliment the job of their sons, who loved every minute of the adulation, yours truly included. It was beautiful and had been decorated with homemade decorations, white lights and red bows galore.  And the handmade stand had been painted to look like a gift box.  What a beautiful use for the top of that glorious evergreen and, what's more, maintaining its life status until school was closed for the holiday, it survived and continued to grow thanks to those drilled holes and he cold weather and was later planted on one of the city's school grounds where it survived for many years.

It took years for the original tree to fill in it's flattened top, resulting in a broader but still pointed tip.  And the base became fuller and broader as it continued its march both skyward and outward.  The last time I was back in my old stomping grounds I rode by the old house and the tree was still there, only much taller and still broadening.  If it didn't die of disease or lose a battle with a hurricane over the years it's probably still there. But regardless, I'll always remember the special Christmas tree gift that the beautiful old evergreen gave to all of us on that Christmas years ago. One of those stories I can never forget.
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SUNDAY MORNING COMING DOWN: The Sunday Before the First Christmas

12/20/2020

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Picture
Were Mary and Joseph traveling on that day?
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)

One of the most amazing things about the story of the birth of our Savior who we celebrate each Christmas is the fact that it was foretold for many centuries before the event. The Prophet Isaiah, living about seven hundred years before the first Christmas spoke of it, yet most didn't understand the full ramifications of the message and later, when it finally took place, many had difficulty believing it, others never got the word, and even more, some of the elites, denied it for it was seen as a threat to them and their power and influence.  So let's imagine ourselves living in the Holy Land back then and how it must have actually been perceived. It is truly a fascinating story. And let's look at this date today which, of course, is a Sunday only five days before our grand celebration takes place in full glory. In so doing, look at it as if we were alive and experiencing what was happening right then.

First off, we need to recognize that Sunday had no significance to their religious practice since it was not a Holy day back then but, rather, the first day of the work week.  And since we don't know the date of the Christ's birthday, we have no idea what day of the week or even with certainty the time of the year although most scholars are sure it was not in the winter. In those days leading up to the last Sunday before the first Christmas, people were going about their daily lives in Jerusalem and Bethlehem  as they always did except each man and woman had to be registered for the tax rolls at that time of year. So, Mary and Joseph were no exception and they were either in the process of getting ready or already on their trip to Bethlehem, Joseph's place of registry. Failure to comply with the law would result in a swift and severe punishment, and with Israel under the control of Rome it made things so much more difficult. All knew not to dare and be late but to get to their registry points on time.  In addition to the tough route of journey up and down rocky hills, the fact that Mary was at full term and the baby would be coming soon compounded things much more. It was a tough time for the Jewish people under the leadership of the weak Herod who was petrified of Rome. In order to comply with the edicts of Rome, Herod was cruel  and self-centered as well and being a secularist, not being a man of faith made it much worse.

But the Jews had one ray of hope. The word was spreading that the Son of God would soon appear on earth at any time.  Now, Mary and Joseph knew she was carrying the baby that would be Jesus, but even they didn't full comprehend the full degree of what that entailed. So, they just remained largely anonymous as they made their way along the roadways. And just think of it. Mary, who was still a young teenager who had been gifted with an immaculate conception by God. And Joseph, much older but actually responsible for the young woman to whom he was betrothed, carried forth with plans to get here safely to Bethlehem via donkey, or perhaps was already under way. Think of how concerned, yet committed they were as they headed to Bethlehem where Mary would deliver the Christ Child, the King of Kings in a lowly stable witnessed by cows and lambs and just a few others. 

The new King of Kings would  be born in a setting where humility was the order of the day and  the new King would grow to dazzle all people including the temple priests as He could sit and talk about man's relationship with God and his fellow man with a countenance of intelligence supported by the Spirit that would change the world with His love. So, think about the wonderful plot of the story which would last approximately thirty-three years before He would fulfill His ultimate purpose in coming to this earth to offer salvation to those of us who believe in Him by faith through by His act of sacrifice for us.  And as a humble and soft-spoken man and God, He epitomized what God expects of us.  It's not the amassing of riches, fame and power.  No, it's to live with His love for and with His faith in him put at the center of our lives.  Please think about this as we go through the next special week and vow to live it ourselves as we go forward. God bless each and every one of you and enjoy. It is truly the most wonderful time of the year.

Thank you, Lord, for all the blessings that you give us and for giving us the wonderful true story of the first Christmas before it even had that name.  And help us to always stay strong and live our lives with faith, love and peace as we do your bidding as faithful servants of your love and grace.  Amen.
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All He Had to Offer Was the Playing of His Drum

12/19/2020

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Picture
Before the Baby Jesus, all he had to offer was his drum.
With only six 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 bells 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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George Washington's Christmas, 1776

12/17/2020

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PictureGeneral Washington seeks Divine Guidance as he prepares for the march on Trenton.
It's that time of the year again when we all look forward to a great Christmas with family and friends, good food and seasonal cheer and, at the centerpost, the birth of Jesus Christ who, of course, is the the Real Reason for the Season.   It is important, however, that we remember those who carry and carried out difficult tasks on our behalf, both present and past.  None are more seriously impacted than our military men and women in harm's way around the world, missing their loved ones and counting on God's grace to keep them safe.   And General George Washington in late December of 1776 was no exception.

Things weren't going well for the Continental Army. Annual enlistments were about to run out, the Congress was threatening to cut funding and Washington's troops were in Eastern Pennsylvania in the cold, many with no winter clothes or shoes.  Washington knew that the Army would not survive much longer without a big victory.  They needed something to boost morale and garner the support they needed for supplies and equipment and to gain reenlistment by the troops. Nothing improves morale like victory, decent food and needed supplies.

The Army had been chased out out of New York decisively and came to Pennsylvania since Philadelphia was the seat of power and thus far remained secure.  But even Philadelphia and its surroundings couldn't last forever and all who had joined the Revolution would be dealt with violently by the British should Washington fail.  He decided to take a big risk as his last stroke, for if it succeeded it would breathe new life into the cause.  Failure would be the same fate he and his men would face if they did nothing, likely death and perhaps by torture.

On Christmas Eve, the troops were gathered and put on display, preparatory to movement.  Then they spent most of Christmas Day moving out toward the Delaware River where, when other supporting forces joined them at  a predetermined time, they would cross the Delaware by boat to New Jersey.  Their target would be the contingent of Hessian troops quartered in Trenton. Supported by one large group of British soldiers as well, the Trenton troops were well trained, well fed, well equipped and battle ready.

Contrast the two sides on the eve of the battle. The Hessians, under Colonel Rahl, were warm, well clothed and enjoying a Christmas night party, unaware of the fate awaiting them in the morning.  Washington's men, exhausted from their march and with chattering teeth and many with bloody feet, were now getting ready on the banks of the river to cross.  Washington himself was amazed at how well his men were standing up and he knew he needed to make sure their courage was awarded with a victory.

There were two very bad signs for Washington in these final hours on Christmas night. First, a significant number of his forces never made the rendezvous, meaning they would cross without them. And then, during the early stages of crossing, between eleven and midnight, a heavy storm with snow and sleet came down on them, rowing through the water which was running fast and was loaded with large chunks of ice.  The normally docile river was swollen to a width of nearly three football fields and over seven feet deep, meaning that any man overboard would die before he could be retrieved.

But Colonel Rahl's men had a disadvantage as well. Their haughty leader thought so lightly of Washington's forces that he disobeyed orders to fortify his lines and  disregarded a message delivered by a spy telling him the Continental Army was on the move.  Had he taken the Americans more seriously, his men could have been ready and Washington's Army of twenty four hundred could have been decimated by Rahl's smaller but highly trained and disciplined force of only fourteen hundred. Another factor, his lack of sufficient cannon power (he only had six of the lightest caliber cannon) would be no match for Washington's eighteen heavier cannon if only they could be properly deployed.  If they had been challenged early on, they would have never been properly placed to accomplish the outcome.

Safely making it to the Jersey shore, the Colonials maintained strict noise and light discipline and made the trek to the edge of Trenton in utter darkness.  Washington put his men in position, one group on the north end of town and and another other on the south and waited for dawn on this day after Christmas to attack. A third force would seal off the town from escape.  His cannon were now in position to cover the entire center of town where he knew the Hessians would accumulate.  And, at precisely the right moment, the assault commenced through the outer edges of town.

As the Hessians came awake, hurriedly put on their boots and grabbed their muskets, they did just as Washington expected and were met with a hail of cannon right on the mark. The British dragoons attached to the foreign mercenaries just vacated the area, unwilling to fight and die with the Hessians.  Colonel Rahl was mortally wounded and in less than an hour, the battle was done.

Casualties were surprisingly light with the Americans losing four to injury with two men frozen to death.  For the Hessians, twenty were killed, one hundred wounded and one thousand captured. 

A striking feature of the Continental Army action is found in the names of men who participated.  They include the future President Washington, of course, as well as Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, future presidents James Monroe and James Madison, as well as future Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, John Marshall.  Even though they would squabble over the specifics of the future new nation's organization, they were patriots all.

Washington got his much needed victory, the battle would go on for nearly five more years and Americans would eventually gain their freedom.  And I know way down deep in my heart that the prayer, depicted in the picture shown above, played a role in the outcome. For God works in mysterious ways, but he does answer prayers if they are said in earnestness and there is no doubt that Washington was serious.  Things don't always turn out the way we want exactly when we want them to, but with patience they were answered for the Colonials.

So, when you're enjoying Christmas and all that it represents, remember the hardships and bravery shown by these men who played an important role in the creation of America. We would likely not have the freedom and opportunity that we have today had they not acted resolutely way back then in 1776.  MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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COULD IT BE A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE?

12/16/2020

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PictureA father ready for war as his young son tries to imitate him.
The month leading up to Christmas is a period when most of us are high spirited and yes, maybe a bit stressed, but generally very happy as we anticipate the excitement and splendor of the big day ahead.  But what about those who face a sudden turn of events which causes great sadness and grief in the middle of the holiday.   This is a story about just such a circumstance.

Little Joey McCauley was a typical young boy in a small Scottish town just north of the English border.  He was in his early years of primary school in that late fall of 1917,  occasionally getting in minimal trouble at school for playing pranks while learning his school lessons easily and enjoying the games that little boys play.  He loved his mother dearly but missed his father terribly since his departure to France for service in the Great War.

Joey and his mom were surprised on the last day of November to learn that his dad would be home in three days for a five day furlough. It would be the first time in sixteen months that they had seen him and both were overjoyed. And since that meant he would not be home for Christmas, but in the opening days of the season,  they would have an early Christmas when he arrived.  There was much to do and it must be done quickly.

Mom finished her special sweater designed to help Joe, Sr. fend off the damp cold in the trenches.  And Joey was making a clay pony on a stand, something that Sergeant McCauley could keep with his possessions as a remembrance. The year 1917 was a tough one in the British Isles and presents were home made and simple, but they came from the heart.  And Mom did go over her budget for a special dinner, a large roast of beef which a farmer friend bartered with her for sewing. It would be a grand occasion.

And grand it was with friends visiting and the Sergeant spinning yarns about his trench mates, but always staying clear of the cold, hard truth. Joey and his father walked and talked a lot, each proud of the other for being a man in what they were tasked to do.  Senior for doing his duty and Junior for being the head of family in the interim.  Mother Katherine just smiled and hugged her man as often as she could, hating the fact that after five days of family bliss the old fears of an uncertain future would beckon again.

At the end of those glorious days they saw Sergeant McCauley off on the troop train, knowing that, hope and pray as they might, it could be the last time they would ever see him.  There had been many deaths of area men since British units wee manned from specific geographic areas, not by random selection, not at random at all and their hometown had received more than its share.  While it was great for camaraderie and morale, it was horrific if the unit found itself on the short end of a major battle.

The time leading up to the real Christmas ticked on, but Joey and his mom weren't very interested since they felt their Christmas was already over.  Joey was growing lethargic and while he maintained his schoolwork, his only real enjoyment now was visiting farmer John Campbell who raised sheep and Shetland ponies.  Mr. Campbell walked with a significant limp; he had been seriously injured in France in 1915, nearly died, but fully recovered except for the limp.  He really wanted to let Joey help him on the farm but was afraid he would be asked about his frailty. He would do nothing to concern the young boy about something which could very well happen to his father as well.  But he really could use help with the ponies who were a handful.

And then one day, about a week before Christmas, the bad news came.  The Minister from the village Church of Scotland congregation appeared at the door with an unopened telegram.  It had been given to him by the head of the local telegraph office, a distant cousin of Katherine McCauley, who thought having a man of the cloth deliver the notice would be best.  He knew that Katherine and Joey were congregants of the local church.

Joey had just returned from school and he and his mother were getting ready for an early supper when they saw the Reverend McIntyre coming to the door.  They knew what it was and, upon receiving the news, asked to just be left alone for a time.  Mother and son cried together, talked about their now departed husband and dad and then prayed. A church memorial service would be held later since the body was unrecoverable. And both knew they would have to go on with their life even though it would be tough.

When Mr. Campbell heard the news, he waited a few days and then made plans to visit the McCauleys, mother and son. He knew how much Joey wanted a Shetland pony and he thought that maybe now was the time to offer assistance.  After all, the McCauleys would be financially strapped and any money Joey could bring home would help.  Mr. Campbell wasn't a  wealthy man, but he lived quite comfortably raising sheep for wool and food while also raising and training Shetland ponies to pull carts. He had sufficient acreage to do both and he had excellent contacts with former British Army contracting officers who now were in the private sector. 

Mr. Campbell's planned visit took place one afternoon before Joey came home from school. He timed it so that he and Katherine McCauley could discuss what he wanted to do, with Joey's arrival to come right after their discussion was concluded.  Over afternoon tea, he told Mrs. McCauley what he would like to offer Joey.  Thinking it might be too gracious, she almost turned him down, but realizing what it could do for Joey's outlook and spirits, she said yes.  That settled, they continued chatting over tea until Joey walked in.

"Joey, Mr. Campbell has something he wants to talk with you about," his mother said upon his arrival. "It's your decision but if it is something you want to do, I am in full agreement."

And with that quick introduction, John Campbell explained in detail to Joey what he had in in mind.  He wanted the boy to come to his small horse farm after school each day and on Saturdays and carry out a routine of chores and tasks to help him.  He explained that with his bad leg he was having difficulty handling the energetic ponies by himself  and some chores and assorted tasks as well. Joey would receive a generous stipend for his work and Mr. Campbell would give him a Shetland pony that could stay on the farm. Joey could pay for feed and other upkeep from his wages.

What's more, he explained that if Joey liked it, he would teach him all he knew about the pony side of his business. He just didn't have the time or the physical wherewithal to keep it going the way he'd like. If Joey showed promise as he got older, the opportunity for him to take over that operation was certainly possible since Mr. Campbell, a lifelong bachelor, had no family to take over.

"That's my proposal, Joey," Mr. Campbell closed. "Does it sound like something you'd be interested in?"

Joey sat silent for a moment, trying to let it all soak in and then, suddenly, he broke into a broad grin and said, "Boy, do I ever, Sir.  When can I start?"

They agreed that Joey would start on the upcoming Saturday and it was the beginning of what turned into a business partnership between Mr. Campbell and Joey that would last for many years.  Joey quickly grasped his duties, learned all their was to know about Shetland ponies and became a carting trainer of area fame in later life. 

And three years after it all began, Katherine McCauley and John Campbell became husband and wife.  It made for a great family for all three of them and it lasted until death of Mr. Campbell some thirty years later.

Joey never forgot his natural father.  And on the gateway to the pony barn he placed a memorial plaque for Sergeant Joseph McCauley, Sr. honoring his service in the Great War. Joey would go on to serve in uniform like his dad in the Second Great War, but came home without serious injuries and continued working in his dream job, raising and training Shetlands.

Yes, it is a sad Christmas story but with a great ending. And it goes to show that bad things also open windows to better things when good people are kind to one another. Look what happened to Joey and his mother, while the love for the departed father stayed with them all of their lives, they realized that life was meant for the living. And all because a kind and generous man stepped into their lives and offered a helping hand.  How fitting that God shone his light on this family and brought them great joy out of sadness. We might even call it a Christmas miracle.

                                                                         ©James Dick,2017: Story rights reserved
Picture
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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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