Liberty and Justice for ALL

"Announce Liberty throughout the Land."

These United States of America have undergone radical changes that have undercut the foundations of freedom laid by the Founders of this great land.  In reading The Essential Wisdom of the Founding Fathers, edited by Carol Kelly-Gangi, it is patently apparent that our Founders' intention was not to create a republic void of moral absolutes, but rather to establish one guided by Constitutional principles rooted in the natural laws of a propitious Creator.  John Dickinson, in A Warning to the Colonies, opined:

"Kings or parliaments could not give the rights essential to happiness . . . we claim them from a higher source - from the King of Kings, and the Lord of all the Earth.  They are not annexed to us by parchments and seals.  They are created in us by the decrees of Providence which establish the laws of our nature.  They are born with us; exist with us; and cannot be taken from us by any human power without taking our lives."

Prior to the publication of the Declaration of Independence, Alexander Hamilton, in "The Farmer Refuted," likewise asserted the centrality of natural rights in the affairs of mankind:

"The fundamental source of all your errors, sophisms, and false reasoning, is a total ignorance of the natural rights of mankind.  Were you once to become acquainted with these, you could never entertain a thought, that all men are not, by nature, entitled to a parity of privileges.  You would be convinced, that natural liberty is a gift of the beneficent Creator, to the whole human race; and that civil liberty is founded in that; and cannot be wrested from any people, without the most maifest violation of justice.

How sad that rights granted by the Almighty would be rent from those to whom they were so graciously committed.  Sadder yet is the reality that such rights have been surrendered over time without a fight.  Dickinson understood that our God-given rights are worthy of vigilant protection.  To relinquish such rights without a fight, is to espouse an ideology of atheism.  To think that the blessing of   liberty is endowed by a government, king or political system is idolatry.  Benjamin Franklin wrote, "Freedom is not a gift bestowed on us by other men, but a right that belongs to us by the laws of God and nature."

Resist the pressure to acquiesce to philosophies that negate the certainty of "the Laws of Nature and Nature's God."  Stand firm in the knowledge that our Founders understood how a nation like the United States could retain God's blessings, and our government held to the standard of "liberty and justice for all."

Discouragement

As I was considering the past nine weeks since becoming a part of Rob's Big Losers, I began to get a little discouraged about the physical struggles that have prevented a consistent exercise regimen, and the slower than expected loss of weight. The longer I thought, prayed and meditated on the situation, however, I was reminded that the successes I have enjoyed far outweigh the failures.

First, and foremost, was the mental shift that came with the realization that my unwillingness to live a healthy lifestyle was the result of selfishness. Like those caught in the web of addiction, the lure of food is as strong for me as the need for another drink is for the alcoholic. Hyperbole? No! Just honest!

Paul plead with the Roman believers to "give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice -- the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask?" He further urged, "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is" (Romans 12:1-2, NLT). I had to give my life away, allow Him to change my thoughts, and not cling to the urges that prevented me from knowing what God wanted me to do.

Second, I have recognized that my exercise plan needs to be consistent, not cruel. Thirty minutes of consistent exercise that raises the heart rate for a sustained period of time, five days a week, can be as effective as the most rigorous exercise routine. It's okay that I don't excel in the rough and tumble world of triathlons and marathons. I have permission to admit I'm almost 60, the survivor of heart bypass surgery, and not interested in endurance activities. What I don't have permission to do is ignore my responsibility as a son, husband, father, grandfather, employee, etc. to do my very best to maintain a level of health that permits me to fulfill my duties in those roles.

Third, my life, in every aspect, is to be a reflection of my Savior. Overeating may be socially acceptable, and more often than not, encouraged. God refers to it as gluttony. Who am I to question His truth? Clearly, I don't reflect Him appropriately when I chose to live by worldly opinion/standards as opposed to His.

Fourth, I am learning a lesson in contentment, and maintaining a spirit of joy which allows me to overcome the excuse of eating as a sedative. An abundantly clear lesson has been "when you're hungry, eat!" But, if your not hungry, don't give in to the urge to eat just to have something to do.

My favorite spot in the house is a wonderful recliner that sits in the corner of our living room. One of my favorite activities is to eat a snack while watching the television in my recliner. In the past, the snack could be ice cream, crackers, chips, pretzels, and the list goes on. Now you're more likely to see grapes, oranges, a handful of nuts or just a glass of water. Was this an easy transition? No, but a necessary one. I now find contentment in going to bed with the realization that I didn't give in to my temptations.

"Attitude determines altitude." While I am not certain to whom attribution is due, this concise assertion can be derived from Paul's letter to the Phillipians where he commanded, "Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again -- rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon" (Phillipians 4:4-5, NLT) Our world needs genuine examples of Christ-like joy.

My desire is to exhibit this joy in accomplishing my health goals. There are times the body hurts and the temptation to give in to a chocolate binge is strong. What do I do? Rejoice! It's time for God's strength to be made perfect in my weakness.

It all goes back to the "change of mind" that I wrote about earlier. Remember this, "If I think the way I've always thunk, my thoughts will stink like they've always stunk." Maintaining an attitude of joy is only possible when I surrender myself to the transforming work of God's Holy Spirit, and allow Him control my thoughts. The Scriptures are rife with affirmations concerning our thoughts. Find them, and make them your meditation until right thinking becomes your norm.

In closing, the World English Dictionary defines discouragement as "to deprive of the will to persist in something." I choose not to be deprived of that will. Rather, I choose to adhere to what John Bunyan, the author of Pilgrims Progress, wrote:

There's no Discouragement,
Shall make him once relent,
His first avow'd intent,
To be a Pilgrim.

I choose to continue as a pilgrim on this journey, regardless of the obstacles, because the lessons are far greater than how to get a smaller waistline, bigger muscles or the acclaim of my peers. The lessons are drawing me to a greater realization of how to be the reflection of Christ as I travel this road.

Choosing . . . to make a difference! Join me!

Setbacks

Setbacks are part of progress. I would be hard pressed to list a project of any magnitude or value that didn’t have circumstances that hindered progress at one time or another.

My journey to better health, which began about seven weeks ago, has certainly seen its share of setbacks. Thankfully, however, my support network of family and friends have continued to bolster my commitment to not only finish the twelve weeks with RBL, but to continue the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle for the rest of my life.

Rob has mentioned several times about the importance of proper nutrition and development of good eating habits. Over the past two weeks that has had to be my focus. The exercise routine has been “sidelined” as I heal from muscle spasms from sciatica. I was able to mow the lawn Saturday with minimal discomfort, so it’s back to the gym on Monday to kick-start my metabolism and continue toward my weight loss goal.

The RBL journey is providing a very practical and tangible example of what it takes to fulfill my commitment to live for Christ. No earthly struggle can compare to the inheritance awaiting me when Christ returns. In the same way, temporary physical aches and pains will not prevent my pursuit of a healthier life, which will allow me to enjoy God’s blessings here while I await His return or my home going.

Thanks again, Rob, for providing this opportunity and the encouragement you and Kristin are offering each day through your ministry at HIS Radio.

Boot Camp - Pushing the Limits

After some physical setbacks in weeks three and four, I attended the first Boot Camp for Rob's Big Losers last Saturday. Those who have been privileged to serve our country and endure a genuine military boot camp know that the process is rigorous, failure is not an option, and the rewards, while delayed, are worth the effort.

Our Boot Camp was held at the Eastside Y on Saturday, February 19 at 8:00 a.m. That's right, 8:00 a.m.! All 32 of Rob's Big Losers were present and "eager" to begin. The circuit included six stations in which we were to do the assigned exercise for one minute and then "rest" during our transition to the next station for 30 seconds. At first glance, the stations looked challenging, but doable.

Station One was the burpee. We used to call this the squat thrust, but the burpee added a jump at the end. Check out the video below and imagine doing that for one solid minute.



During our 30 second rest we transitioned to the next station, which was a lunge and a 90 degree turn at the waist while holding a dumbbell in front of us. We would alternate legs and turn our upper body in the direction of the leg that with which we stepped forward.

We then moved on to a rowing type exercise using two dumbbells. For this exercise we would bend our knees, bend the upper body forward slightly, keeping our head up and facing forward, and lift the dumbbells in a rowing motion toward our chest.

Our next exercise used an "X" on the floor. We were to jump from one part of the "X" to another, or step continuously from one of the four sections of the "X" to another for one minute. Looked simple, but after the first four exercises, my leg muscles were screaming for mercy and felt like lead weights.

After using our body in a miniature game of foursquare, we moved to an exercise called the "Arnold" press. It was modified to include a dumbbell curl prior to lifting the weights above our head and turning our hands as we lifted them. This was one of the few that I could continue to do with only a mild burn in my arm muscles.

The "final" exercise was a squat or deep knee bend while holding dumbbells on our shoulders or at our side. The coach assigned to this station would help us alter the moves such as spreading our legs out, holding the dumbbells in front of us and doing the squat lowering the dumbbells between our legs.

Keep in mind, we exercised for one minute, "rested" for 30 seconds, during which we moved to the next station. This routine continued for about 30 minutes, after which we left the gym and went to the group exercise room and did another 30 minutes of "Body Combat." Punches, kicks, twists, constant motion for one-half hour. All I can say is I was glad when the instructor let us get the mats and do some abdominal work and then finished with some stretches.

Why the detail? Only to point out that I have never challenged myself to push the limits of my body's capacity to endure strenuous exercise. My style has always been to seek the easy route. Settle for what was good enough.

In Jr. High and High School I stopped playing baseball because I would be required to run two miles a day. In college, I took the courses that had the easiest professors, or allowed me to take the course pass/fail. In my work life, I often choose to leave a challenging situation rather than develop the skills required to surmount the difficulties. In my Christian life, I often took the road most traveled to avoid appearing fanatical or off the deep end.

My journey with Rob's Big Losers is about far more than losing weight and regaining a better level of health. That may have been my initial desire, but pushing the limits of my physical endurance is helping me to see the need to do the same for my spiritual health. There is no place for carelessness in a Christian's life.

Solomon penned in Ecclesiastes 9:10a (NLT), "Whatever you do, do well," and I might add with all diligence. Matthew Henry commented about verse 10, "believers have to prove their faith, adorn the gospel, glorify God, and serve their generation." Jesus' job description for the Christ-follower includes, "If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine" (Matthew 10:38, NLT).

This journey is about losing myself to a higher purpose. It's about learning to die to myself and follow in the steps of the God who created me with full abandon. Ultimately, my desire is to take the road less traveled and push the limits of my commitment to my God, my family and my community. Only then will I truly make a difference, and hopefully challenge someone else to join in the journey.

Remember, ALWAYS make a difference!!

The Journey - Week 2

Wow! Maintaining a focus on a healthier lifestyle became more challenging during Week 2. Letting the pressures of work and life create excuses was a real temptation. Such decisions, however, would have derailed my commitment to make a difference in my life and by my example.

Interestingly, I was reminded of the importance of continuing by my daughter as she “coached” me through my Nautilus workout today. As I worked on the overhead press, she reminded me “Quitters never win, Daddy!” While I was unable to complete the number of reps I originally planned at that time, I returned to the machine and fulfilled my stated goal.

Eating has been less of a challenge. The mental shift to being more disciplined with food choices has been helped by the support of my wife and daughter. Overcoming the choice to eat donuts, pizza, and the multitude of other sweet treats has not been easy, but it has been simple. I’ve had my fling with “what tastes good.” Continuing to experience the love of my wife and children, the joy of seeing the smiles of my grandchildren, and the foundational and unconditional love exemplified in my father will require me to choose correctly.

The grafts used to restore proper blood flow to my heart in 2004 have a lifespan of about 10 years. One nurse shared that I could get more, “if [I] behave [my] self.” While my experience with open-heart surgery was mild by some measures, enduring such an invasive procedure again is not anything I want to encounter anytime soon. When discussing my weight and lack of exercise during my last cardiologist visit, Dr. Smith again reminded me of the temporary nature of the cardio artery bypass grafts. He looked at me and said, “You’re an intelligent man and should understand the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.”

Intelligent man? Wow! How did an “intelligent man” let himself slip back into a murderous routine? Hyperbole? I don’t think so. I was, as Mike Huckabee once wrote, killing myself with a knife and fork. The choices I was making were purely selfish and gave no thought to the big picture, and how my choices would impact those who love and care about me. So . . . I continue this trek with the support of my wonderful family, the super coaches at the YMCA, and the continual encouragement of Rob Dempsey and Kristin Roberts from HIS Radio.

Stats? Since January 1, 2011 I have lost (by our Weight Watcher scale at home) 20 pounds. More importantly, my clothes are no longer tight, and actually look like I’m wearing the correct size. I’m working to get back into my favorite suit from when I lost weight after my surgery. I might even include a picture in the blog when I’m wearing it.

Choose to make a difference in and with your life today! Thanks for reading.

Beginning . . . again!

DifferenceMakers was begun as an attempt to bring positive reinforcement for following through on choices that enhance the quality of one's life, vocation or relationships. Unfortunately, life happens, and distractions can draw one away from what's important to address what is urgent. Sadly, urgency can become addictive, creating an environment filled with "emergencies."

Well, it's time to begin a life of pro-activity rather than reactivity or inactivity. It's time to put aside the excuses and start fresh . . . again! (Aren't you glad for second chances?)

My Story

In January of 2004, I was diagnosed with Coronary Artery Disease and had three blockages that required six (6) Coronary Artery Bypass Grafts. All of my life I made health choices that only fed my genetic proclivity toward diabetes and heart disease. All of the warnings went unheeded. There was never enough time to fit in an exercise routine. Eating healthy was a serious burden on the food budget. After all, I was big-boned, and, as some would say, I carried my weight well. (Not sure I ever understood what that meant, especially when the doctor never concurred.)

After the surgery was completed, I considered my survival as a second chance to get it right, and prevent, as best I could, a future need for further such invasive procedures. I attended regular workout times, completed a program that taught about nutrition and exercise. I went from a 44 inch waist down to a 38. I had lost about 40 pounds and was looking svelte with renewed energy and determination.

After nearly three years, the excitement of the "new me" gradually dissipated, and the yearnings of the undisciplined years returned. I was determined not to let my health keep me from what I liked. All those bland vegetables, inadequately seasoned, heart-healthy meals lacked the pizazz of mashed potatos and gravy, pizza, ooey gooey cinnamon rolls, and all you can eat buffets. It was just too much effort to keep track of what I was eating and walk at least 30 minutes each day. After all, if it was my time to "go," nothing I could do would prevent my departure. (Pretty fatalistic, wasn't it?)

After nearly five years of doing it "my way," I stand before you six inches larger and sixty pounds heavier. I take three medications for blood pressure and one for high cholesterol. Even with insurance my prescriptions have a serious impact on the family budget.

Think about it, I've enjoyed all my pies, cakes, steaks and potatoes. I've eaten at the buffet until I thought I would burst. Milkshakes and cheeseburgers were standard fare for a "snack." In addition, I have had the privilege of reinvesting in three wardrobes (40 inch, 42 inch and 44 inch).

Putting aside the sarcasm, it was time to make a difference and begin . . . again! As I perused my Facebook one evening, I saw a promotional piece for "Rob's Big Losers" sponsored by His Radio, Dick's Sporting Goods, and the local YMCA. My wife and I had already determined to start eating according to Weight Watchers' standards. I decided to enter my name for consideration, all the while thinking I'd never be considered. After all, I was merely "portly" and not "morbidly obese." Interestingly, all my body stats labeled me otherwise.

Shortly after entering my story, I received a call from Kristin Roberts from His Radio. She did a short, preliminary interview and gave me the specifics of the program. The following day, I received a call from Rob Dempsey and Kristin to delve a little deeper into my reasons for participating in Rob's Big Losers. Rob gave me some of his story and shared how he had lost over 100 pounds and now participates in endurance sports. He asked some probing questions to assess my commitment to change my poor habits. In the end, he and Kristin offered me the opportunity to become one of Rob's Big Losers. And so, the journey begins!

As of Tuesday, January 25, I am on a trek to lose at least 80 pounds, eight inches from my waist and prepare to run a 5K at the end of April. Thanks to Rob for his Christian testimony, his faithful example, and the opportunity to begin again! He is a REAL DifferenceMaker!

Stay tuned! Details of the journey will be posted weekly! As always, keep making a difference!

Thank You President Bush

Dear President Bush:

As your service to our nation comes to a close, please accept this expression of sincere appreciation. Clearly, your administration, and you particularly, exemplified a tenacious courage to follow the guiding principles of freedom. While the pollsters and pundits attempted to undermine your policies and practices, your vigilance to protect our citizenry from additional harm deserves the gratitude of ALL Americans.

It is not necessary to agree on all issues to recognize the positive contribution made by one committed to making a difference by serving mankind. As you have been interviewed in the closing days of your presidency, your servant's heart has never been more evident. Skeptics will always find the gray cloud in a blue sky, Mr. President. You chose to sacrifice the good to achieve the best! If errors were made, they were made on the side of safety and security. Thank you.

As you return to Texas, know that there are many Americans that recognize the contribution you have made to our Republic. Many have parsed your presidency, and I am sure many more will continue to do so. In the end, history will judge rightly, and, I trust, fairly.

Enumerating your areas of accomplishment shall be left to your friends, associates and biographers. Here are a few areas for which all DifferenceMakers are grateful:

• Thank you for being a man of integrity, honor, and faith.

• Thank you for being open about your love for and faithfulness to your wonderful wife. Thank you, as well, for sharing her with America and allowing us to know her grace and wisdom.

• Thank you for your willingness to shed a tear and share your time with those who bravely guard our freedoms through military service. Thank you for taking time to visit the brave young women and men who have been injured or maimed in the defense of liberty.

• Thank you for not making every activity a "photo op," but a genuine expression of your intense love for our nation and it's citizens.

• Thank you for not being driven by political and doctrinaire winds, but remaining steadfast in your resolve to do what it right and not necessarily popular.

Mr. President, your time in office has reminded us that honor and dignity remain alive in America. You, sir, have made a difference!

Thank you, and God bless you and your family as you return to the life of a private citizen in your beloved Texas.

Merry Christmas!

Christmas, once esteemed to be a very special holiday, has become nothing less than a battlefield in the culture war. How sad that in this day of "tolerance" the enemies of the Christian faith must engage smear campaigns to achieve their goal of a Godless society. Witness the display in the Washington State Capitol.

No one denies that America provides each citizen the right to have and hold whatever they wish to believe. No one wishes to remove the freedom of speech/expression about those beliefs. What is essential, however, is using the age-old common courtesies that were learned in one's youth.

Perhaps that is where the dilemma lies. Without an unshakable moral foundation, such courtesies are only established by situational/cultural standards. As such, one's courtesies are determined by their own value system rather than by a paradigm of established right and wrong.

In a free society, saying "Merry Christmas" and displaying images of religious significance need not be viewed as threatening or incendiary. They do not attack, nor denigrate. Such images are merely intended to express one's devotion to their espoused belief system. In addition, they demonstrate hope, charity and faith.

On the other hand, expressions such as that displayed in the Capitol Building in Washington State are purely intended to be an attack by the atheists on God and all things religious. In no way was it symbolic or uplifting. The same could be said of groups that espouse racial hatred, anarchy and the like. Suppression of religious expression is clearly the goal.

The fact that the religious display was on the Capitol grounds clearly fits within the First Amendment's prohibition of the government to inhibit the free exercise of religion. In no way does a manger scene establish Christianity as the official state or national religion. In fact, were one to attend the sessions of the Washington State legislature, just the opposite would likely be evident.

Followers of Jesus Christ must rethink their approach to Christmas. It is not an "in your face" opportunity. Rather, it is an opportunity to demonstrate clearly the teaching of the Savior to a world in dire need of redemption and love. Don't make "Merry Christmas" a battle cry. Make it a genuine expression of your sincere interest in sharing Jesus with whomever you greet. Then follow it up with a tangible expression of His grace, mercy and love. Be creative!

This is how one can make a difference! Be different!

Merry Christmas from DifferenceMakers! Always make a difference!

Reflections of a DifferenceMaker

Making a difference requires one to step away from the status quo, and evaluate what is truly important. Sadly, too few ever make the needed sacrifice and, as a result, settle into an auto-pilot lifestyle that is governed by societal and/or cultural norms, rather than on verifiable truth.

One young family recently experienced an "ah-hah" moment that provided them a reality check on their perceptions and attitudes. Their motive was honorable; their sacrifice commendable. When faced with truth, however, they were humbled by the facts.

Please read this reflection from Mundane Musings thoughtfully, and be prepared to see what it takes to be a genuine DifferenceMaker:

"Today my wife & I had the privilege of sitting through our first Foster Parent Review Board session. As 'newbies' in the world of Foster Parenting, we are still getting the hang of the whole process. So when the case worker advised us that we were encouraged to attend the Review Board meeting, we jumped at the chance to learn a little more. Since I had no idea what to expect, I decided I would go into this meeting with ears wide open and mouth wide shut. (I know that “mouth wide shut” isn’t technically possible…but I think you know what I mean) I hoped this approach would allow me to look at the situation objectively and see what’s best for our foster son."

"What I experienced in the meeting was nothing like I had anticipated. In a seemingly cold and sterile review of the situation of this little boy’s life, God took the chance to teach me something about myself: something I wasn’t all that excited to learn."

"Prior to the meeting itself, we had discussed the review session with our foster son’s Guardian ad litem, and he mentioned that he doubted either of the parents would show up for this review. Right or wrong, the thought that went through my mind was “It figures”. Having spent the last 3 months caring for this little boy, I had managed to convince myself that the sparse details I knew of his family situation were proof enough that he was treated as an afterthought. I used the scripture from Psalm 127:3, “Children are a heritage from the Lord…“, as a stepping stool to get on my proverbial high horse. Firmly in saddle, I rode into the conference room."

"The session began with introductions, and I was glad for this. It would be good to know all the people involved in this case. One by one, moving left to right around the table, each person stated their name and their role. Board member. Another board member. Case worker. Guardian ad litem. Father. Case worker. Wait a second! Did that man say “Father”?? Sure enough, I looked across the table and immediately saw the resemblance to my foster son. This was his dad. He had shown up after all: an interesting twist, to be sure. My turn came to state my name, and then my wife did the same."

"After stating our role as foster parents, I purposefully avoided eye contact with the father. Having formed a less than flattering opinion of this man I’d never met, I couldn’t bring myself to look at him."

"The meeting began by the social worker reviewing the reasons that the baby was removed from the situation to begin with. As I heard these, I thought to myself, 'How embarrassing it must be to have a group of strangers sit around and talk about why you were not fit to keep your own child.' They detailed the fact that the father was now out of work. This was one piece of information I was aware of, so it didn’t shock me. What did startle me was that when asked about this situation, the father responded that his plant had closed for an extended holiday break, and he was now working two jobs to do what he could to make ends meet. I found myself looking at him as he gave his account. As he finished talking, he looked my direction and I caught his eyes."

"The entire time we have enjoyed the privilege of caring for our foster son, I had drawn a picture of hardened, selfish man who cared more for his own whims and desires than for the basic needs of his children. What I saw in his eyes couldn’t have been farther from the portrait I’d sketched."

"I saw a man that was embarrassed to have to admit these things in the company of strangers that held sway over his child’s future. I saw a man that had become overwhelmed by the health challenges of his newborn and simply didn’t know how to stop the snowball from rolling downhill. Here was a man working multiple jobs to provide shelter and food for his family, and somehow I was still looking down on him because of the TYPE of job he was able to secure. This was about the point that God tapped me on the shoulder and said, 'The only reason your roles aren’t reversed is because of my sovereign, sustaining grace in your life. I have a plan for you. I have a plan for him. You are currently caring for his son because it’s what I have designed. Don’t you dare think that your path makes you a better person that is any more deserving. It’s my grace that deserves credit…not you.'"

"Gulp."

"I had never considered myself to be an arrogant person. Confident? Sure. Arrogant? Certainly not."

"The fact that I prided myself on my lack of arrogance should have told me something."

"Before this meeting, my wife and I had talked about how difficult it was to pray over this situation. On one hand, we really wanted to pray for the family of our foster son to be restored…but on the other hand, we knew we loved him and felt we could provide him with a strong family environment. After my Boardroom Revelation (too dramatic?), I no longer found it hard to pray in the right way. God’s will is all that needed to be prayed over this matter. Nothing else."

"As the meeting wrapped up, the review board advised us all that they were recommending that, after a few more steps, our foster son be reunited with his family. Five minutes earlier, this news would have caused me to question the wisdom of that decision. But that was back when I thought I was the magic. I now knew better."

"As we were all standing to leave, the Father–who had never spoken up in prior sessions unless directly asked for a response–looked at us and said, 'Thank you for taking care of my son.' Eight words had never resonated so deeply in me."

"Just 15 minutes earlier, I was questioning whether the man across the table was deserving of his own son. In those next 15 minutes God used my own arrogance to remind me that just over 2000 years ago, He probably questioned whether I would be deserving of His."

"As I mentioned, I went into this meeting hoping to learn something. Mission accomplished."

While these are the musings of the young father, his wife was equally impacted by this event. What makes this post meaningful is that it represents the core of this couple's values. They were willing to commit themselves to the life of a young child, but in a larger sense, they evidenced a commitment to doing what was right for another young family.

Well done, Rich and Laurie. Mom and I could not be more proud of your willingness to be used of God, and humble enough to see His plans as superior to your own. We love you!!

Go, therefore, and Make A Difference!!

Pro-Choice Difference Makers

Before you ignore this post, read on.

I believe in being pro-choice.  

• I like having a choice in cars.  
• I enjoy the choice of neighborhoods from which I may pick a home.
• I love the choice that supermarkets offer in food and other household items.
• Having a choice of restaurants, clothing stores, building supply outlets, etc. makes a community more appealing and diverse.

Choices are, in fact, as American as apple pie.  So the question is not whether one should be pro-choice, it is rather a debate about the quality of the choice or choices one makes.  Sadly, along with many other words, this compound word has been hijacked, and become a euphemism for murder in the liberal political agenda.

Some would have us believe that pro-choice only relates to abortion.  I submit that once conception occurs, the choice for the partners ends.  Their choice was during foreplay, and, ultimately, copulation.  Once the egg is fertilized it is an individual; a human life.  Rather than being a "product of conception," as some affirm, the embryo contains the full genetic information of a distinct human being; 23 chromosomes from the mother and 23 chromosomes from the father.  When the embryo implants itself in the wall of the uterus, the viability and existence of that life lies purely in the hands of God, and should not be subject to whims of human intervention.  This little human being, when aborted, is never given a choice!  She or he becomes a fatality; the result of an irreversible choice.  

Abortion is not a matter of choice.  Chastity vs. wanton behavior is!   Self-control vs. licentiousness also demands a choice.  Once a choice is made, the only thing that remains is the consequence.  And, as a wise man once said, "You can choose your choices, but you cannot choose the consequences of your choices."

Difference Makers must confront the errant doctrine of postmodern politics.  Refuse to accept the redefinition of our culture to accommodate those unwilling to live within the boundaries of disciplined choices.  Let's be pro-choice in the manner our Founding Fathers intended us to be!

Spirit Guided v. Market Driven

A sign at a church reads, "The church is Spirit guided, not market driven." How profound ! In our culture, the "market" seems to drive everything, including the church.

To be clear, this author believes that ALL of life is to be Spirit guided. The Apostle Paul instructed the Ephesian church (meaning the people who comprised the community of believers in Ephesus) to be continuously controlled by the Spirit of God (Ephesians 5:18). Our lives are to be governed by the high principles of God's law, and the divine leading of His Holy Spirit. We are not to be driven by "market forces" alone, but to measure those forces by the canon of God's Divine Revelation.

A new dichotomy, however, has become the cultural norm. It would seem that such Spirit guidance has no worth in the marketplace. Many seek a clear separation between what is "spiritual" and what is "secular." This expectation presents Christian believers with a genuine conflict. How can one be continuously guided by God's Holy Spirit, yet unable to exercise such guidance within the marketplace?

This author submits that such a dichotomy does not and should not exist. One cannot separate his spiritual moorings from his daily thoughts. Choices will always be made in relation to what one holds dear. Opinions are the result of ones convictions and values.

Unfortunately, modern culture seeks to prohibit that which is popularly deemed as "intellectually untenable." Such an argument excludes any possibility of honest debate. It permits the creation of a "truth" while stating that there are no absolutes. It denounces those who hold Christian value-based views as bigots, closed-minded and unintellectual. Candidly, such harassment itself should expose the fallacious nature of the secular debate.

What was once based on character, integrity and truth is now awash with realitivistic dogma. Such demagoguery ill serves the debate. If the secular argument is indeed superior, let it stand the test of a sincere debate. Drop the bias toward a godless society. End the put down of those who would hold to Christian values. Put the secular progressive agenda to the test by revealing its presuppositions.

In a truly free society, such differences are debated without malice. One who holds to a Christian world view should be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks of the reason of his or her hope (1 Peter 3:15). Such debate refuses to disparage a person with whom one disagrees. Rather, it demands a firm grasp of that which one seeks to put forward, and a trust in the Author of Truth to embed His Truth in the heart of the listener. Those with whom we debate will be convinced by God's Spirit, not by our vitriol or oratorical eloquence. Perhaps it's time to return to the direction of God's Spirit and refuse to be drawn into the muck and mire of the "politics of mutual destruction."

Let's make a difference in the marketplace!

Energy: Potential or Kinetic

As we began a new year, the penchant for setting "New Year's Resolutions" grew exponentially. One cannot watch television, listen to radio, or read editorials without some reference to what will be done differently in the coming year. Sadly most resolutions lack firmness of purpose, and merely speak to one's superficial desires based on societal or cultural influences.

Most so called resolutions possess the equivalent of potential energy. Reflection on this point begs the question, "Do I want real change or am I merely creating soundbites for the benefit of those around me?"

Potential energy is the energy an object has because of it's position, rather than it's motion. An object held in ones hand possesses potential energy until it is dropped and becomes subject to the pull of gravity. A new battery possesses potential energy until it is appropriately connected to the device for which it was purchased. So resolutions possess only potential energy until some force is applied that puts one's resolve into motion.

An object will tend to remain at rest until some external force acts upon it and overcomes what is known as inertia. Change only comes when inertia is overcome through an outside force. This force must be sufficient to release the potential energy and create what is known as kinetic energy. Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses as a result of its motion. The release of energy into motion is impacted by many factors including, but not limited to, velocity, mass, and friction.

This same principle can be applied to someone seeking a permanent change in their lifestyle, habits, health, etc. Is your "energy" potential or kinetic? What will cause you to overcome your natural state of inertia to achieve the resolutions you've established? What external "force" will you use to overcome the inertia in your life this year?

Make real change possible by allowing your energy to be put in motion by overcoming the tendency to "remain at rest." Change the habits that create ease and "force" yourself out of your comfort zone. Once in motion, refuse to stop until your goal is attained. Make your resolutions "revolutions" that change your destiny. While you do this, remember . . .

Always make a difference!!

Habits - Friend or Foe?

As I read a devotional piece this afternoon, I was introduced to a quote by the theologian Augustine. The quote jumped off the page and pierced my stubborn will.

Augustine wrote,

"I was bound by the iron chain of my own will. I was rather an unwilling sufferer than a willing actor. And yet it was through me that habit had become an armed enemy against me, because I had willingly come to be what I unwillingly found myself to be."

In a day when personal responsibility is lacking, this quote reminds us of an undeniable truth, i.e., you are the sum total of your habits. Habits either elevate you to the next level of achievement or they shackle you to your not so productive past. They prod you to continue on despite the obstacles, or they allow you to make excuses for failing to excel.

Have your habits become an "armed enemy" against you? Are you willingly becoming what you unwillingly find yourself to be? Are your habits an "iron chain" binding you to an attitude that obviates change and progress?

Augustine did not allow the iron chain of this armed enemy to keep him from his high calling. As a theologian he went on to record a marvelous compendium of religious writings that have served the church since the fourth and fifth centuries. Augustine found freedom in Jesus Christ and the principles he declared. As a result his habits became his best friends instead of his enemies. The chain of bondage was released and he was free to willingly become what Christ had chosen him to be.

What habits are helping or defeating you? Are you willing to change those habits into productive friends that enable rather than disable advancement? Your lack of progress and change cannot be blamed on others if your habits are not designed to implement such.

Seek those habits that will help you get to where you want to be. Make them a part of every day. Don't compromise their fulfillment for any reason.

Stay tuned for some additional thoughts and suggestions for difference making habits.

Always make a difference!

Others

I awoke early this morning and decided to get on the computer to review bank accounts and peruse the web (that's the same as "surfing the web" for you byte heads), and visit some websites from some memorable experiences and relationships. In the process, I visited the website of friends who recently went through a very harrowing experience and rediscovered the importance of family and friends.

To put some context to this blog, I was raised as an only child. As a result, I considered everyone to be at my "beck and call." (Should you wish to verify the use of this phrase, check it out at the Word Detective.) Such an attitude creates angst both for the "attituder" and the "attitudee." Knowing this, I have made measurable strides as an adult extending myself to others and learning to follow the Apostle Paul's admonition to the Philippians, "do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others" (Philippians 2:4, NASB). Yet the struggle remains!

Reading a blog entry this morning reminded me of the importance of self-sacrifice and love in relationships. Here's a sample:

"We decided a while back that the best scenario would be a home environment and as Bill and Janet’s home is not wheelchair accessible we extended an invitation to them to come and stay with us until other arrangements could be made. Janet is staying in our guest room upstairs and Bill is staying in our office which is now a bedroom for him and it has a full bath attached which is convenient. It seems to us that the Lord, once again, provided this home for us for more reasons than we knew at the time."

How many of us would sacrifice our new home, and all its amenities, for the benefit of someone else? In a day of selfish ambition, it is refreshing to find some who still practice the Golden Rule. These folks are the real DifferenceMakers in our society.

Perhaps you know of others who are making a difference at "street level." Share them so DifferenceMakers can publish their contribution.

Happy 4th of July, and spend some time remembering the DifferenceMakers who made this great nation possible.

Always make a difference!

The Pressure's On!

Today was a very busy day! Three day weekends are always great . . . until Tuesday! This past weekend was no exception. A Difference Maker, however, always looks for the lesson or lessons in the hardships. Two such lessons were found in today's turmoil.

First, leaders always emerge when the pressure is on.

For any manager, scheduling is an issue. No matter how you plan, it seems that the exception seems to become the rule. Short staffing creates a tremendous amount of pressure on any team. Leaders, however, see opportunities to improve a negative circumstance.

Today was no exception. A team member noticed a coverage need, and volunteered to fill that need. Though this should seem like a common sense action, in today's egocentric world very few will jump at the opportunity to vary their schedule for the benefit of the team. Such team members deserve to be publicly complimented and offered further leadership development opportunities.

Second, pressure provides an opportunity for your best to be revealed.

Pressure is revelatory. It always provides a glimpse of what is inside a person. Consider your actions during the most recent pressure packed event. What did it reveal about you? What characteristics were evident to those around you?

A Difference Maker will learn to let the pressure bring out his or her best. I am reminded of the words of Paul the Apostle writing to the Roman church, "We continue to shout our praise even when we are hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. In alert expectancy such as this, we're never left feeling shortchanged. Quite the contrary - we can't round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit!" (Romans 5:3-5, The Message)

When negative circumstances are seen through the eyes of opportunity, one will allow the pressure to develop positive characteristics that enhance the lives of others and improve the conditions in which they operate.

The pressure's on! What will be your response?

Always make a difference!

Courage vs. Fear

My wife and I just returned from a trip to the Christiansburg, VA area. Since Blacksburg, VA is just a few miles from Christiansburg, we decided to visit Virginia Tech and pay our respects to the 32 innocents that lost their lives at the hands of a deranged young man.

Our visit to the temporary memorial, set up to honor the victims in front of Burrus Hall, was very moving. In spite of the number of people around the memorial, the mood was quiet and respectful; a fitting tribute to those given no respect by their assailant.

Especially moving was the small memorial to Professor Liviu Librescu. As I reflected on the selflessness of this courageous man, I was reminded that courage is not the absence of fear, but the realization that something is more important than the fear.

Professor Librescu was a teacher in the truest sense of the word. His respect for the life of his students cost him his own. Such a lesson must not be lost on our culture.

Rick Warren, in his bestselling A Purpose Driven Life pointedly reminds us that our existence is not about us. Dr. Librescu embodied this axiom. He was indeed a DifferenceMaker. Sadly he lost his life doing so, but let us not lose his lesson.

We honor those who lost their lives at the Virginia Tech on April 16, 2007. May we never forget the lessons this horrific event provides.

A Rosie By Any Other Name . . .

How one can be excused for using public profanity, in a speech nonetheless, and escape being vilified is beyond this author's comprehension. There was a time when one's speech was guarded by decency in consideration of others. Even those who weren't raised in an upscale, "proper" household knew the boundaries of decency. It seems those boundaries are now as porous as our border with Mexico.

One's right to use profanity is not in question. As abhorrent as it may seem, this author is willing to die for any ones right to freedom of speech. That, however, is not the issue. With freedom comes responsibility. Freedom, in other words, has limits. And, in a free nation, those limits must be self imposed.

Perhaps Soren Kierkegaard had it right when he said, "People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for freedom of thought which they seldom use." Common sense would dictate that you think before your speak. Isn't that what grandma always told you? A preacher's wife once corrected this author by saying, "You need to weigh your words!" And, for the record, she was right.

Rosie O'Donnell has been the recipient of much justified critcism. Whether she is funny or not will not excuse her crassness and vulgarity. She represents what might be termed a new cultural order in which anything goes without regard to its offensiveness, rudeness or truthfulness.

For me, a Rosie by any other name would still smell bad.

How about you?

Always make a difference.

There is Hope!

How can one make a difference in this world?

What are the core truths around which a culture can huddle in times of chaos?

Where can one go when they are disillusioned at best, and despondent at worst, with the seeming inconsistencies in a "politically correct" world?

These are only a couple of questions that come to this authors mind when I review the events of the past few days. No matter how you cut it, the massacre in Blacksburg, VA reveals a terrible void in our cultural matrix. I submit that the gaping hole in our social fabric begins and ends with the philosophy of relativism.

There can be no doubt that the pathetic actions of a deluded young man were wholly his responsibility. Regardless of the cultural influences, one must be accountable for the choices that he or she makes.

Relativism, birthed by Secular Humanism, is a philosophy that effectively removes the ability to place blame for any action. As such, to declare that something is either good or evil becomes impossible. The argument of a relativist would be, "What is evil to you may be good for someone else." This circular reasoning condemns a culture to anarchy.

One must begin to face the fact that this world has some basic truths that are inviolable. We must define what is good and what is evil. To do so requires that a society envelope themselves in a system that does not vary with whim or caprice; a system that is founded on inalienable rights endowed by a Creator. Such began this grand experiment called America.

DifferenceMakers invites you to a conversation around this topic. There must be a groundswell of common sense citizens to rise up and say, "Enough is enough." If you have an interest in this discussion, please leave comment. Let it be known, that not all comments are created equal. One must express their opinion clearly, cleanly and concisely. All profane or derogatory comments will be immediately expunged from the record. Reason must prevail if we are to have a productive dialog.

Let's make a difference in this rapidly declining culture.

The Box Full of Love

Here's a story that I "borrowed" from Jim Gentil and his Positive People Power Newsletter. For more information check out his website by clicking on his name above. Enjoy the story . . .

The Box Full of Love

An 11-year-old boy named Todd was struggling to adjust to the death of his mother. His father had abandoned the family long ago, and Todd was living with an aunt who made it known she resented the responsibility.

On several occasions, the boy's teacher heard the aunt tell Todd, "If it weren't for my generosity, you would be a homeless orphan." The teacher tried hard to make Todd feel valued, and she encouraged his interest in making things.

Just before the Christmas break, Todd shyly presented her with a small decorated box." It's beautiful!" the teacher gushed. Todd replied, "There's something special inside my mom gave to me before she died. She said it's the one thing I can give and still have plenty left. It helps you feel better when you're sad and safe when you're scared."

As the teacher started to open the box, Todd warned her, "Oh, you can't see it."

"Well, what is it?" she asked kindly.

"It's love. And you're the first person, since my mom, who I love."

The teacher hugged Todd and whispered in his ear, "I'll treasure this forever. It's the best gift I ever got." She kept the box on her desk always. Whenever she was sad or scared, she opened it and the love inside never let her down.

Years later, Todd sent her the tassel he wore for his graduation from medical school. It's been in the box ever since.

In truth, the gift that keeps on giving is not diamonds; it's love. The more you give away, the more you have left.

Make a difference in someone's life today by sharing some love.

Happy Valentine's Day!

The Prophets of Can't

How many struggling individuals have surrendered their dreams to the Prophets of Can't. Sad is the state of the person who allows their hopes, dreams or aspirations to fall prey to the "poor spirits" spoken of by Teddy Roosevelt, "Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorius triumphs, even though checkered by failure... than to rank with those poor spirits (emphasis mine) who neither enjoy nor suffer much, because they live in a gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat."

Edgar Guest composed the following poem. I hope it gives you a proverbial shot in the arm, and helps to energize you when the going gets tough.

CAN'T

Can't is the worst word that's written or spoken;

Doing more harm here than slander and lies;

On it is many a strong spirit broken,

And with it many a good purpose dies.

It springs from the lips of the thoughtless each morning

And robs us of courage we need through the day:

It rings in our ears like a timely sent warning

And laughs when we falter and fall by the way.

Can't is the father of feeble endeavor,

The parent of terror and halfhearted work;

It weakens the efforts of artisans clever,

And makes of the toiler an indolent shirk.

It poisons the soul of the man with a vision,

It stifles in infancy many a plan;

It greets honest toiling with open derision

And mocks at the hopes and the dreams of a man.

Can't is a word none should speak without blushing;

To utter it should be a symbol of shame;

Ambition and courage it daily is crushing;

It blights a man's purpose and shortens his aim.

Despise it with all of your hatred of error;

Refuse it the lodgment it seeks in your brain;

Arm against it as a creature of terror,

And all that you dream of you someday shall gain.

Can't is the word that is far from ambition,

An enemy ambushed to shatter your will;

Its prey is forever the man with a mission

And bows but to courage and patience and skill.

Hate it, with hatred that's deep and undying,

For once it is welcomed 'twill break any man;

Whatever the goal you are seeking, keep trying

and answer this demon by saying: "I can!"

Making a Difference . . . because I CAN!