it's how we respond

AI says—"How we respond to challenges is what truly defines our character and shapes our future. When faced with adversity, our reaction can either exacerbate the situation or steer it towards a positive outcome. A thoughtful and measured response often paves the way for constructive solutions, fostering resilience and growth. By embracing the difficulties with a proactive mindset, we can turn obstacles into opportunities, demonstrating not only our strength but also our ability to adapt and thrive. Ultimately, it is the manner in which we respond that can transform a moment of crisis into a stepping stone for success.” I think that is pretty philosophical for a non-human expression!

We talked to an older lady in our park who was pushing her two dogs in a dog buggy. I said to her—I hear a dog takes about 3 hours a day to take care of them and you have two soooo is that 6 hours?  She said—That is about right! But I love it!  Jeanne and I must be getting older as after church we went up in ‘em ‘er Superstition Mts to hike a favorite trail. It was rather hot and we were rather tired, I guess. We pulled into the parking area, I turned off our vehicle and we just sat there and neither one of us said anything. Then one of us said—Do you really want to do this today?  The other said—Not really! Soooo we went back to our tin hut and I think I took a nap! But we did go back another day and hiked The Treasury Loop; it was great! It’s how we responded! That "another day" we had a lot more pep! We were the oldest on the trail by far. Such is life!

How would you respond? An older lady told us she fell out of bed and got stuck between the bed and the wall and broke her leg quite badly. Her family couldn’t get her up as she was stuck soooo they had to call emergency services (i.e. the ambulance and the fire truck) who pried her out. They got her unstuck and told her that the worst is when old folks fall off the stool and get stuck between the stool and the wall; now that is really tricky!

Many older folks buy step-through bikes as soooo many old folks fall off their bikes by getting off and on; just standing still. Yes, we have to give up our macho ego thinking that of being really a tough, strong young people (i.e. not soooo)! Many older folks would rather not get hurt (i.e. they really like their original teeth, hips and shoulders). BUT it appears that older folks are really good at eating, drinking and talking! We see a lot of that! Some old guy named erv, bought a step through from an older guy who couldn't ride anymore who lives down the street for $45! I have no idea how many old guys have aged out of this bike before me! Such is life.

The picture is part of my dermatology exam. He found a spot on my shoulder that he took a biopsy of, and it was melanoma. He cut it out (i.e. .43 mm deep but cut down to 1 cm and 7 cm long for prevention). I was fortunate that I did an exam, all because of Jeanne encouraging me. Soooo I suggest you do it. For you seniors—Medicare will pay for it but you must make sure they code it a needed exam. Now, how are you going to respond to the suggestion of you going to see a dermatologist and be checked for skin cancer? Is it I don’t need it, I’m a guy or maybe that’s a good idea?  

We had a great time seeing our old friends in FL. They seemed to look older compared to the last time we saw them. Maybe we all look older and are older but we just think it’s just the other old folks that look older! Da! We sure had a lot of fun doing stuff and thinking we are younger (i.e. that was how we responded like playing beach ball tennis)! We had a hoot! It seems that we respond to different folks differently now don’t we (i.e. different folks seem to rattle our bones differently). Why is that do you think?

I have read two books about ego and humility. I read them at the same time. Both are good. Humility The Path to Holiness by Andrew Murray and Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday. Now it is how I respond to them. I suggest you read them. They might impact us. Of the two, I like Humility The Path to Holiness the best but both are good.

I have been praying for some folks for some time. I actually don’t know exactly how to pray for them soooo I pray that God might give them wisdom and ask God to take it from there. I have seen a ray of hope from what I see and hear recently about them; a ray! I thanked God for maybe a crack in their hearts; that is my response.  There is no medicine like hope, no incentive sooo great, and no tonic soo powerful as the expectation of something better tomorrow.

An acquaintance who might become a friend (i.e. she is from AZ and we’re heading to WA) sooo who knows if we will ever see each other again told me this about herself. She says she has a hard time keeping her mouth shut when someone is being abused. Her and her husband were waiting in line at a fast-food place and this old guy budges in front of them and says to the little girl behind the counter—my burger has mayonnaise on it and I don’t want mayonnaise. The little girl said she was sorry and she would correct it. He ragged on her until she was in tears. Then he came back a little later and complained that there was too much ketchup on his burger. She had enough and got in this guy’s face and told him off in defense of the little girl (i.e. she was her advocate—her response). She just couldn’t take it anymore. The old guy sat down and ate his burger! I don’t know if she hoped he choked on it!

OneSmartPerson says--Kindness is its own reward but cruelty is a self-inflected wound. Kindness makes everyone feel good but when we are cruel it comes back and wounds us.

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyDeceasedFriendJean said—People can’t drive you crazy, if you don’t give them the key.

voice of reason

And one of those great friends in FL told us this--What did the monkey say when he got his tail caught in the lawnmower--it won’t be long now! Now that is voice of reason let me tell ya!

AI says—"The ‘voice of reason’ refers to a perspective or individual that advocates for rational, calm, and thoughtful decision-making in situations where emotions or impulses might otherwise lead to hasty or irrational actions. This voice often encourages people to consider the consequences of their actions, weigh their options carefully, and act in a manner that is just and equitable. In many discussions or debates, the voice of reason plays a crucial role in guiding individuals towards a balanced and fair resolution, ensuring that actions are measured and considerate rather than driven by immediate emotional responses.”

When we visited FL do you think we went sightseeing, experienceseeing or friendseeing? Well, we sight seen Kennedy Space Center where we heard over and over that people say—It can’t be done but it can! And we had the experience of riding in an air boat with the alligators which we never did before.  We spent time with good great friends (i.e. the best part). 

“It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference.” – Tom Brokaw    A friend had a confrontation with another lady. She described her as a very head-strong, controlling person. From what others say and my observation, I think that her description might be a fair evaluation (i.e. on the money, hit the nail on the head). Maybe she doesn’t seem to hear the voice of reason. . . . “Now pray to the LORD to take these snakes away. So Moses prayed.” Those snakes left! Saturday question—Do you think that is crazy! Do you believe it?

Don’t wait for a chance—create one! RickyRick says—"The basic law of relationships is this: You tend to become like the people you spend time with.  If you spend time with grumpy people, you get grumpier. If you spend time with happy people, you get happier. If you want be humbler spend time with humble people.” SlipperyJoe says--Ya don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure that out!

Absolutely devastating! We hear of stories that appear are absolutely devastating to people’s lives (i.e. maybe you have had such an experience). I sometimes don’t like to hear those stories and sometimes I do! I admit it! Those real life stories really do affect people; they do. They are not easy to deal with. Many devastating events affect us forever. We probably all deal with them differently. Do we all have devastating stories? We sure do hear a lot of them; maybe because we are older do you think?  Maybe, just maybe, overwhelming situations might highlight our powerlessness and might even make us more humble or even become humble. It could be.

TomNobody from Sisseton, SD says—"If you think you know a lot about something, remind yourself that there are many things you do not know. If you want to learn something worthwhile, attempt to learn how to be a nobody. The most profound and valuable lesson of all is to truly know yourself and to have a humble opinion of yourself.” You believe that? I can hardly believe that many folks do! ItchieBitchie says--It’s not American. TomNobody thinks it’s voice of reason. Viktor Frankl in his book Man’s Search for Meaning (i.e. a great read, my opinion) says—"One who gives light must endure the burning.” WorldClassLarry says—"If you want to be a beacon you have to share the light.” Think through those statements will ya! Saturday question—Can a nobody be a beacon with a light? I asked AI who a nobody is; quite interesting!

AI says--A nobody, in the philosophical and introspective sense, embodies the essence of humility and self-awareness. This individual eschews the trappings of ego and status, understanding that true wisdom lies in recognizing one's limitations and the vastness of what remains unknown. A nobody does not seek validation through external achievements or accolades but finds contentment in the quiet pursuit of personal growth and the betterment of others. This person listens more than they speak, observes more than they judge, and values the intrinsic worth of all beings. In a world often driven by the pursuit of recognition and power, a nobody stands as a testament to the profound strength found in modesty and the silent, unwavering commitment to genuine understanding and compassion.

Have you ever got breaks in our lives that we didn’t deserve or didn’t see them coming; they just happened? I have for sure! I just can’t explain them. I was reminded once again by two of our grandkids having such breaks and I would guess they might not even have noticed them. Both situations gave them an opportunity to gain confidence. Both happened because “these two people” were not there because of different reasons, and they got to move up into a position of opportunity (i.e. it changed the dynamics with these two people gone). Have you ever noticed that when some folks aren’t there, it changes the dynamics and others have a chance to shine (i.e. maybe the alpha dog has passed on)? Maybe that’s the voice of reason showing up! Could be but I don’t know! I’m just another bozo on the bus!

Are we vulnerable to believe stuff that just doesn’t make any sense, is not common sense or it is not voice of reason (e.g. like getting scammed). AverageJoe says--It’s amazing what we will believe at times (i.e. completely brain washed).  Well flip the pancake with counterintuitive (e.g. The idea that expressing gratitude can improve one's own happiness might be counterintuitive to some, who might expect that receiving gratitude would have a greater impact. Nonetheless, numerous studies show that practicing gratitude enhances personal well-being). AI says--In essence, counterintuitive ideas challenge our preconceived notions and often lead to surprising and enlightening discoveries. It is a reminder that our instincts and assumptions are not always accurate and that exploring the unexpected can yield significant insights and outcomes.

This could be the voice of reason speaking to me!  OneSmartPerson says--Something powerful to remember: When friends are in pain, sometimes the best thing we can do is simply show up. The deeper their pain, the fewer words are needed. This is known as the ‘ministry of presence’—you don’t have to say anything; just be there. We may have suffered some big losses in life. Maybe we’re in a time of loss right now. Don’t just pray for ourselves; pray for the recovery of hurting people in your neighborhood, community, church, and world—and watch how God brings recovery to your own life.” Saturday question—Why would either of these two things work?

Henry Ford says—"You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do but it’s built on what you did or are doing.” LuckieEddie says—Talk is cheap! ThePreacherMan says—"How easy it is to go along with the crowd! But, instead of simply getting in line and shuffling along automatically, we can know exactly where we are headed…It is my experience and belief that, most of the time, the crowd has no idea where they are going. They just are going, and that’s good enough for them.” Maybe we need to try to listen for the voice of reason! I read this in a book I’m reading—“It’s a temptation that exists for everyone—for talk and hype to replace action…Almost universally, the kind of performance we give on social media is positive. It’s more ‘Let me tell you how well things are going. Look how great I am.’ It’s rarely the truth; I’m scared. I’m struggling. I don’t know.’” CrazyMarvin says--Some chatty statements can be  rather blurry.

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyDeceasedFreindJean said—The sweetest sound is the word of praise.

preposterous

If I want to make healthy choices, I have to be meek. Now meek doesn’t mean I am weak. The truth is meekness and weakness are at opposite ends of the spectrum. Meekness is nowhere near weakness. In fact, the Greek word for meekness literally means “strength under control.” Is that hard to understand for me; I think soooo; how about for you at times. It’s confusing to me. It's complicated.  At times it seems preposterous to me.

It is many times soooo hard for me to see the big picture. My view it seems is from ground level and not from 10,000 feet. It’s almost embarrassing sometimes (i.e. I see soooo little but think I see sooo much). I was reminded recently of this by another person who told another person that she should look at the big picture and don’t get soooo carried away with a small, maybe overexaggerated part of the picture. Maybe we/I need someone to remind us of this. BUT maybe it’s easier for others to see our big picture than ourselves to see it as we might be toooo close to the situation (i.e. tooooo emotionally involved). We can’t see the forest because of the trees! I say quite often, if I can see it and you can see it in someone else’s life then others can surely seeee it in others as well as we ain’t that smart that only the two of us can see it! MissPerfect says—I still can’t see it! How blind can I be anyway! MissPerfect, someone needs to tell us sometimes, we can be pretty blind!

I sometimes think that if I have more more more it will fix my problem or make my life way better. It always doesn’t work that way. Many times, it makes my life worse. What! It might be a paradox! The world tells me I need more more more. The world tells me that it’s preposterous to think differently. We can never have enough. LuckieEddie says--It’s crazy to think different than that. Sooooo if a few of you think that the attitude of having more more more is hard on our lives, how can we change that or do we even want toooo change it. Saturday question—How can we be content? SusieQ says—I want to be like my neighbors soooo I always want more more more to keep up with the Jones; I’m running behind the way it looks; I’m always in a catch-up mode!  They seem too always have more more more than me; it’s just preposterous!

I was talking to a friend from Butler Co and we were talking about another friend who has had some health treatments as how he is doing. My friend said—If I talk to him he is really doing great and if I talk to his wife he is almost dead!  We had to laugh about those different perspectives!  There is always two sides to every situation depending on who you talk to. Soooo we better be careful who we get our information from, I guess. It’s preposterous how two sides can see the same thing and have such different perspectives about the same situation (i.e. almost black to white—like life is good to life is terrible)! Crazy!

A golf buddy told me that his genealogy shows that his ancestors came over to America on the Mayflower.  He said--It’s either they didn’t like what was going on in the old country, England, or they were horse thieves!

I asked two of my golf buddies who are retired bankers from Canada about the economy. One said factiously, I think—Bankers don’t know and really don’t care! Maybe they just adjust accordingly. I was in the hot tub socking my bad knee the other night and met some really nice folks. One was an engineer who said he was a very diligent employee. He told me he would be happy to take a payout and retire. I would get my early retirement, and I could easily get another job. It would really be a good deal for me. But for the not sooo diligent workers it might be a different story. AverageJoe says--It’s quite often matters what side of the fence we are on! Now ain’t that the truth.

I have had conversations with several friends who told me that they read “It’s Saturday” but many times don’t read the whole thing. They say--I need to move on; I can’t read that much. I become anxious, impatient and can’t focus that long. They say even with an email more than 5 lines it is toooo much for me. Or reading a book, it’s really hard for me; I become jumpy! We do live in a snappy world and are teaching our kids to have no patience; if it’s not done in 5 seconds, they are bored. ItchieBitchie says--We live in a bang bang bang world! We don’t like to wait; we want it instant now don’t we! Huh, interesting.

A floor covering salesperson named Jacob did a very good job, I told him that. His response was—I try my best; that is all I can do. I just really like that response. We had brunch with a senior friend who I have known for a long time from the Midwest. She mentioned to Jeanne about her pronounced hurting of her thinking about her son’s death from an accident (i.e. Jeanne had no knowledge of it). Jeanne and I discussed this and decided that it would be proper for us (i.e. particularly her) to ask her about her son. At brunch Jeanne asked her and she had the opportunity to express her emotions and hurt to us (i.e. the nitty-gritty). Sooooo many times it appears that we don’t let others have that opportunity. Think about that! I think Jeanne gave her a great gift at just the right time!

You might think this paragraph is preposterous!  Well, I think it has some merit. Christy, anybody can be a Christy, says—“Think about those who are far off and those who are near. Listen and learn from our brothers and sisters and consider how we can encourage those in our life who are far and near and those who are far off spiritually.” Saturday question--Soooo what are we going to do to encourage someone who is far or near?

VioletStillwater says that this is preposterous!  We know a lady who we had interaction with recently that is very unhappy, actually real bitter it appears, bitter about everything. RickyRick says—We’re to be selflessness toward her (i.e. it means we think of ourselves a little less often and others a little more often). Hey, RickyRick you haven't met this lady! hahaha We are going to try; we are going to try to put our best foot forward but she is a long ways down the road, let me tell ya! We too are a long ways down the road as we are in FL visiting friends at The Villages (i.e. that lady will be out of sight out of mind for awhile). Surely there aren’t bitter folks at The Villages! “I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice.”--Abraham Lincoln

LandlordMikey, anybody can be a LandlordMikey, told us that he has 6 rentals. He told us that he has made more money off of them than he did his job! ANYWAY, he told us that an old lady developed his interest in rentals and taught him how tooo manage them (i.e. like doing all the repair work himself0 and how to manage renters (e.g. the old lady had a renter that didn’t pay and wouldn’t leave soooo she went over to the house and told them she was going to paint the front door soooo she took off the front door; they left). Preposterous? It worked!

WorldClassLarry says--The Bible teaches that meekness is one of the keys to stress reduction in life. It basically says, in a simple definition, Let go and let God. RickyRick says—"That is the essence of meekness; It’s surrendering, submitting, and agreeing to what God wants to do in our lives. It’s letting God be God in our lives.” That can be hard for me to do at times. I admit it. It can seem just preposterous to some folks.

Have a FUN time my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyDeceasedFriendJean said—Laughter, love and service to others are truly the best medicine.

humble

SwervinErvin says--I am going to quiet down my life; it has become toooo loud! I feel I need to bring it down a notch. I’m looking for the silver bullet!

RickyRick, a great homerun hitter, says—"erv, one way to experience God’s love in a tangible way is by surrounding ourselves with other believers who know, love, and have trusted God. It’s in godly community that we can listen to one another, share honestly, and point each other toward our compassionate, loving God.” That truly is a way for me to quiet down and slow down and it helps me to think better. I really think it is. ChuckTheBulldog says--Constantly agitated folks never seem to be happy and seem to lessen my life; they tend to make me agitated and loud. Yikes!

They, whoever they are, say that I make about 35,000 decisions a day. Wow! Some are mundane and some are major. I’m going to try to slow down once again (i.e. that is toooo many decisions for me)! hahaha Way tooooo many! That is one of my decisions today. I have learned this once again by being humbled (i.e. it was a humbling experience). Saturday question—Have any of you ever been humbled (i.e. like getting our socks knocked off)?

I went for a hike up ‘er in ‘em mountains that was very peaceful lately. Soooo serene and quiet. I like to be alone at times. It’s a different feeling. It makes me thankful and I appreciate life more, it appears. It feels good to get away from the world’s noise for me (e.g. what did you get on that hole or what is the pickleball score or how many calories did I eat today or what is going to happen to the world or how many steps did I take today). I sure have a lot of first world problems, it seems! What am I thinking!

I want to have a holistic life (i.e. encompassing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being). Now that is a challenge. I want the whole package to be great, not just one or two parts of my life. I know folks who put a lot of effort into one part of their life, but the other parts are a mess. That’s not good, in my opinion (e.g. some of the world might think they are great, but maybe the reality is they are not great). I don’t want to be a show dog.  WorldClassLarry says—Show dogs might win the show today but gone tomorrow. CrazyMarvin asks—What do they do with a race horse that doesn’t win or breaks a leg? You got it!

Jeanne insisted I go to a dermatologist to have a body scan for cancer prevention. Soooo I did; my first such visit in my life. Growing up on the farm a mile and quarter south of Roseland, MN, Chester and Anna would have never have done that, probably would have just died or put some Watkin’s Black salve on it, I guess! ANYWAY, the dermatologist froze part of my head soooo that is why maybe some of what I just said makes little sense or maybe the freezing didn’t make any difference, I have no idea! It’s not a quantitative measurement but more of a speculative measurement.

Soooo far what I have written sounds like I’m preaching! Maybe I am. I’m preaching about myself and to myself (i.e. I'm just letting you listen at no cost).  You have heard enough about me preaching to myself. Reality seems to be that most folks get tired of hearing about us but would rather hear and talk about themselves; that’s a proven fact. Soooo let’s talk about you folks now. But reality is, I really don’t have enough time or space! hahaha

We recently met some folks here in our park who we didn’t know before. Our first impression was we didn’t know about them as we didn’t know them. After we talked for some time, we really liked them. We had great conversations a few times. We had great discussions about many topics, did you hear that I said discussions and not lectures. There is a huge massive difference here folks. They also seem to understand the overall picture of life. They are fun to be around (i.e. they’re not “I” people)!

Some folks down the street told us their story that because of health issues, their lives have really changed, like overnight. Some folks might think they are invincible, but they aren’t. OneSmartPerson said to me—Our life can change in a heartbeat (i.e. he learned that by a humbling experience they had).  But remember folks, that can be for the worse or for the better, but we usually think in a negative way I would guess. It appears that none of us are immune. OneSmartPerson’s experience ended up being an experience that appears to be good in the long run but it could have been a sad life changer (i.e. in one second)! Yikes!

John is writing a new book. He is calling it "I'm Proud of My Humility!" hahaha It could be a best seller!

There is talk about being creative in making some money for road use. It’s pay by the mile as electric cars don’t pay any road tax (i.e. I read it in the newspaper soooo it must be right). ProfessorArt at XYZ University says--Sooooo maybe we should have a life tax, pay by the year we live; it we live longer, then we pay more. Maybe even have a increased upward sliding scale like insurance does! Some Canadian friends tell me once they hit 80 their insurance rates really go up. If they want to winter in the south, they either have to pay it to play in the Valley of the Sun or freeze to death in Canada! hahaha

I met a guy on the driving range from Holstein, IA and he said—I hit buckets of balls on the driving range and then go and putt for an hour on the practice putting green but my game just gets worse instead of better. It’s suppose to get better. I wonder if it has anything to do that I’m 84 and getting older! Da! I sure miss some of my old golf buddies who aren’t here in AZ anymore; some have passed and some just can’t make the trip anymore and some whose wives are in bad health. I had soooo much fun with them. I have gotten to know some new guys by playing with them; we are getting to know each other and having fun. BUT my game is like the guy I met on the driving range, deteriorating by the year! That is hard to take; I admit it! I ain’t like I used to be! It’s humbling! It’s my turn now! I don’t like that reverberation! Such is life.

I am going to try to make a change in my life. It might be a minor change that probably won’t ever be noticed but could end up being major! Most folks probably will never notice my change! Dr.J says—"The book of Proverbs is filled with comparisons using like or as (a simile). For example, “Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control” (Proverbs 25:28, NIV). A lack of self-control is compared to a city with broken-down walls. Instead of saying, ‘Practice self-control,’ the image of the city illustrates the danger of the lack of self-control.”SwervinErvin says-- I confess that my change will not be easy for me (i.e. a tall order). I will have to smile at times! For sure. I tell you what folks, it will be a very humbling experience for me. It will take much self-control! BUT, it’s also very exciting, an opportunity! My opinion is it will be a great return on my investment (i.e. an usury rate of return)! 

Saturday questions—What is a big deal in our lives? Do we ever make a big deal out of some small deal? Sooooo about 60 folks play golf in our 55+ park on Mondays. They keep score and turn them in. I don’t know for what reason. All their scores basically is a score that they want as none of them keep score the same. They all have different rules in how they keep score. They might just as well write down their score before they start (i.e. whatever they want it to be). And does it really make any difference? I don’t think soooo at all. Yes, I think, my opinion, that some scores in life are important but the scores of those 60 or soooo old folks isn’t one of them. Ok, the golf score might be important to ClazenaShowboat and JoeSmackTalk but not to FunLovingGertie! Oh by the way, we went and played Mexican Train Dominos with friends after we got done playing golf Monday and my score was the highest (i.e. meaning I was the big loser)! It didn’t make one bit of a difference to me. And I had a great time with great folks. Oh, VioletStillwater tells me that they don’t keep score when they play golf and everyone has a lot more fun!

Ryan, a guy who claims he learned a lot from experiences writes in his book--Some folks learn humility and some choose ego!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyDeceasedFriendJean said—People are more important than tasks. Just be there—take time, savor the moment.

twilight zone

JoeBlow says--As a friend, warns folks: Don’t wait until you hit the bottom of the twilight zone to change. Don’t let life force you into surrender, make a change before that happens. I asked a friend how he learned to weld. It was a forced event, I had no choice!

I don’t think you folks always believe what I say, that is for sure, but many of you will believe what AI says!  AI says that Intrinsic motivation in an inherent satisfaction and pleasure derived from the activity itself. This type of motivation is driven by an internal desire to perform a task, such as a personal passion or a genuine interest in the subject matter. Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, involves performing an activity to earn a reward or avoid a punishment that comes from an external source. This type of motivation is driven by external factors, such as receiving praise, money, or a good grade, or avoiding criticism or penalties. Understanding the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation is essential, as it can significantly impact one's engagement and overall satisfaction with an activity. While extrinsic rewards can be effective in the short term, intrinsic motivation tends to foster long-term commitment and enjoyment.

Some folks I just don’t seem to understand (i.e. they might be motivated by intrinsic motivation or extrinsic motivation (i.e. we seem to have different motivations). I’m sorta kinda in a twilight zone in thinking about some folks. I just don’t really understand them. And that is ok, I guess. I’m taught that I’m not to judge folks so there (i.e. but I’m human, Da!), Some folks seem to be somewhere between reality and the zoo in my evaluation. Of course, they might think the same about me, probably. They provide a blur (i.e. sorta kinda an obscurity) in my mind. That is not either good or bad, but they just make me scratch my head! SusieQ says—erv, maybe you aren’t on the same page, in the same chapter, or in the same book as they are!

Talk about the same book! A friend sent me a couple of books to read; I think he thinks I need help and he’s right, I always need help (i.e. doesn’t everyone, well, maybe some folks who are probably in the twilight zone don’t think they need help). ANYWAY, here are a few thoughts that were in the book UnDistracted by Bob Goff. Like the saying goes—Take them or leave them! Just remember, you get what you pay for! ~  Find your purpose, and you will experience more joy. The math is simple.  ~  Things that instantly blow your hair back might be a yawn for someone else.  ~  A life without reflection is like a vapor.  ~  Decide you will transform who you are from a puppet to a real person.  ~  Remember, mere agreement will change very little in your life; only action has the power to change everything for you.

On March 30, 1863, when the United States was being torn by the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln called on Americans to “confess their sins and transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon.” Lincoln assured the people that the “cry of the nation will be heard on high and answered with blessings.” Some folks think President Lincoln was in twilight zone in his thinking and others think he was right on the money.

We had the opportunity to have dinner with some long-time friends that I made through business many years ago and we have remained friends. He is retiring after 43 years in business at the age of 62. He has done 15 Ironman competitions (i.e. you might think he’s been in the twilight zone for a long time hahaha). We really seem to be on the same page although his motor is bigger than mine (i.e. he has a huge massive motor). In selling his business he found out once again that there are jerks in all levels of business and he is dealing with one once again. He said there are total jerks in all levels of life. He said--Jerks will not be remembered but forgotten immediately ‘ cause they are jerks! Many are only where they are ‘cause they have power. In BobbyBob’s book he says—Remember this: Most disagreeable people out there don’t think they are mean. They think they are right…When being right gets in the way of being kind, we need to catch our breath and decide who we want to be all over again.” Saturday question--Do jerks know they are in the twilight zone? A life decision that my friend made years ago that I admire is: He will not ever drink if he is going to drive, not even one! I really respect him for his decision.

I saw this sign in a gift shop window. I have a old friend, old in two ways, that I miss as he can’t come to AZ anymore. We have had soooo much fun through the years and much discussion together. He is the MI-Engineer who really enjoys life. ANYWAY, I sent him this sign as he is Polish. Here is our conversation by text—Yak shi marsh!!—Great, but I miss our golf group a lot. That was a fun group and a fun time. I really miss you personally as well—Same here erv…but life goes on! God’s got a plan for us…I’m with him all the way. I think that is a great testimony. Saturday question--What is your testimony?

Jay, anybody can be a Jay, says—"Some time ago I read this intriguing statement from Winston Churchill, the one-time prime minister of England: “Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.” Consider that for a few moments. It seems I like to be around type A individuals and many of them are entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs take risks and some fail many times. It seems entrepreneurs have to have a certain mentality. Jay goes on to say—"When failure comes, my human nature says, ‘Take it easy. Just don’t try that again, Jay!.’” However, the quote from Churchill reminds me not to be deterred with a failure, but to press on and try again. And at the same time, I should maintain a high level of enthusiasm!” AverageJoe says—Failure is handled differently by different folks; failure puts many in the twilight zone maybe and they never can get out, soooo they think!

As we were leaving church last Sunday, a super senior lady was doing the same using a walker with wheels on the front. She was a very nice gal with such a great attitude. She said to us--I can drive my car better than I drive this walker! I actually can walk better without it but it makes everyone else happy (i.e. and then laughed)!  Such a delight! She tickled our gizzards!

Are we stiff necked?  That could be physically or mentally or spiritually. If we are, we don’t operate very effectively, at least I don’t. Being stiff is like rangeomorphs setting in at death (i.e. like being in the twilight zone). An old friend liked to ask—Are we stiff necked, ornery. stubborn people? Whowhatme! He really liked that question. My friend was not stiff necked; he tried new things that transformed our church and many folks (i.e. he took risks). De colores!

We just know! Have you ever met a person and you just knew what they were; our gut feeling just tells us what they are. And usually we are right on. We just know! I have many times and I’m now thinking of one person in particular. I met her maybe 2 years ago but didn’t really talk to her very much but was around her. Recently I had the opportunity to have a couple of conversations with her and she is way different than her public persona might be. I was not surprised; I just knew that she was that way. How did I know? I just knew that her heart was just very kind.

This paragraph might be for believers but maybe even more for unbelievers if they are willing to read it and think about it. I can tell you that it is very important to me, and no one can argue that with me as I know it works for me. It takes me out of the twilight zone! Dr.J says—"One of the marks of humility (meekness) is a teachable spirit, a willingness to learn from God and from others who know Him well (i.e. like minded folks). The psalmist prayed, “Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law” (Psalm 119:18).” LuckieEddie says—I agree, as a friend, let me warn you: Don’t wait until we hit bottom. Don’t let life force us into surrender. 

I had lunch with three good ol’ friends from MN here in AZ. They all grew up together in northern MN in the iron ore country a.k.a. Ely and have been friends all these years. I have no idea why they let me be part of their friendship, but I guess because I will put up with them or something! hahaha They are all diehard MN Viking fans and I’m just a lukewarm fan as I grew up in MN. ANYWAY, they told me that when they die, they are going to have the Vikings be their ball bears soooo they can let them down one more time!

If you’re facing a dilemma or decision today, ask God to whisper His wisdom to your heart as part of His matchless guidance. It works for me!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyDeceasedFriendJean said--Do your best for people who want to dance with you.

ready

Ol’ Blue asked—erv, you want the political answer or the honest answer?  This “It’s Saturday” is the honest answer as far as I can tell!  But, you all can decide for yourself. Such is life. Sooo it's like what ThisGuyFromWyoming,MI told me recently--So, when I see someone driving with a dog on their lap, I wonder what would happen if the airbag went off (i.e. you can decide for yourself)!

ItchieBitchie said nonchalantly to me—I have a fight going on in my head. Maybe we all have a fight or multiple fights going on in our head as we are infinite a.k.a. human. Maybe it’s like a white dog and a black dog fighting in our heart, mind and soul.  I can tell you which one will win, it’s very easy, the one we feed the most and eventually keep. LuckieEddie says—erv, it’s not rocket science. Just look around. A neighbor lady says--I don't want ItchieBitche to be my Valentine! 

RickyRick says—"Here’s the point:  For us to reach our goals, we’re going to have to learn how to delay gratification.  The difference between successful people and unsuccessful people is that successful people do things unsuccessful people are unwilling to do. Successful people often do things they don’t feel like doing. Successful people know how to delay gratification. They do the right, tough thing before they do the fun, enjoyable thing.” SusieQ says--Maybe we aren’t ready for that yet; but maybe we should be ready!  And maybe we will never be ready. I have no idea what is going to happen with us. But an ol’ deceased friend would say to me—erv, decisions have consequences and guess who gets to make the decisions!

I got up really early recently to think through some stuff when it was quiet and dark. I really enjoy this experience. I thought about adjusting my life, once again. I asked AI about humility. I got great information, my opinion, and one piece was that what I was doing by being alone was cultivating humility and one suggestion AI gave me was—Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, can help cultivate self-awareness and reduce egocentric thinking. I think that was good stuff for me to think about. Maybe not for any of you but for me it seems to make a lot of sense. But remember folks, I'm just another booze on the bus!

I/we have been around several folks who were married to narcissists, and they told us their stories (i.e. we heard one story from a friend just recently). How do you think those marriages went? Even worse is a marriage where both folks are narcissists! How do you think that went? And some folks have friendships, marriages, or business relationships with folks who have the traits of a narcissists which is probably very challenging. And maybe we all have some traits that are narcissistic. Whowhatme! Missperfect says—I’m not ready to talk about me; I will take a rain check, please!

Last Sunday before the service started the guy ahead of me started waving at someone to the way right. I looked and it was someone from our park who is a friend. I started waving tooooo as I thought she was waving at me. She waved more vigorously and with more action. The guy ahead of me did the same and I did as well. Then she smiled. I looked to my way left and saw her husband waving back at her. The guy ahead of me turned to me and said--I didn't know her but thought she must know me. I said--Don't feel bad, I waved at her as I thought she was waving at me; I guess neither one of us are as important as we think we are!  Has that ever happened to you?

A friend told us about her recovering from an addition. It was quite a story with a happy ending. Absolutely amazing. The reason why she went into rehab was because she was ready to change; she said, if anyone is not ready, change won’t happen. Wow! Her husband who is also a recovering addict said—If the person doesn’t want to change, they won’t! We quizzed her more about being ready and her response was—The Holy Spirit just got ahold of me and I was ready to change and wanted to change. These two folks are also my heroes. Another friend recently told me about his daughter who was also an addict. She decided to quit drinking and she did. She told him that for some time it was tough but after that it was much easier and the end result is great. I asked why she decided to quit—‘cause she wanted to change she said. TheGuyDownTheStreet says--We can’t fix what we won’t face.

In all 55+ parks in the south are older folks with maybe the average age is 77, I don’t know but something like that. Most of the stories of their lives are that they started with nothing but worked and saved and here they are. For most, it is quite amazing. Ok, some inherited a lot of money and some married into money, yes that is true also. Many also have pensions and Social Security that they depend on. Most of their “pot of savings” didn’t happen over night. Here’s the truth: Everything takes longer than you think it will. That’s why, if you want to be in a different place 10 years from now, you have to start today. Right now. Because everything takes longer than we expect.  The rule of 72 is that if we divide the interest rate into 72 that is how many years it takes to double our money. Our son tells me that we have lived in the best time in history; we have had it very good; everything was exceptionally good during my life. If we look at history, he might be right.

This, for sure, will be relevant to everyone, yes, everyone! We are ready but they aren’t! Yikes! I’m talking about some of our children, grandkids, great grandkids, spouses or friends. We have to be patient and that is soooooo hard to do. I’m thinking about how we would like to have some of them change but it doesn’t seem like it is happening. And they might not ever change (i.e. they are unchangeable we think, we have almost lost hope). It is soooo hard to be patient as it might take some time and we might not even see it in our lifetimes (i.e. I’m not talking about micky mouse stuff but really important stuff). They just aren’t ready yet! Maybe someday they will be ready! A friend told us her story of her buying a high end, very cute dog but she could not train it. She eventually had to give it away along with its rap sheet to someone else. Seven others took the dog, but they could not train it either and they all brought the dog back and said—I give up, that dog is untrainable. She asked her sister to dog sit the dog in her home while she went on vacation. After two days, her sister couldn’t stand the dog and put it into a commercial kennel and texted her sister and told her that she could pick up the dog at the kennel when she got back!

Constant beggin’ and complainin’ and pitchin’ can wear a person down until many folks just give in, ok, They might say--I’m ready to give in. Some develop a “give in type of attitude” a.k.a. I’m ready now; I’m tired of always being hammered; it’s easier to just give in (e.g. like a parent giving in to their kids begging for candy at the checkout). Our neighbor wears this tee shirt and she says she always gets some type of response or remark from folks when she wears it (i.e. there must be a reason I guess). VioletStillwater says—If we don’t want to give in, we won’t! CrazyMarvin says—I think five out four folks have trouble with temptation!

Five minutes is all it took pic. I golfed with an old Canuck acquaintance who I met probably 10-12 years ago in an Alzheimer's support group here in AZ. Both of our wives ended up dying from the disease (i.e. soooo far no one has got better from the disease) and both of us found another gal. My search was a God wink but his was different but also maybe a God thing, I don’t know for sure. He used Fast Dating at a 55+ community. The ladies sat at different tables and the guys dated them at their table for 5 minutes and then they would go to the next (i.e. hence the title fast dating). He said--Some gals tried to entice the men with perfume, one with a shot of whiskey, some have done it many times, some looked like they were rode hard and put away wet and some did not fit his personality but one gal rung his bell and the rest is history. Five minutes all it took!

The infinity symbol (∞) has been used in mathematics to represent a number that has no limits or bounds. OneSmartPerson says—“The Hebrew word ‘olam, rendered “everlasting,” is also difficult to comprehend. It can mean, “generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity.” We can’t seem to wrap our minds around this concept or is it a precept or is it a principle? But OneSmartPerson says--But God’s love can be described like this. His love has no end. Now that can be hard to understand. Saturday question—What do we think it takes for the human mind to understand that? LuckieEddie says—Miracles are never explained!

Lena from Ahgosatown Landing, MI was telling me that last year her neighbor, Mabel, really was excited as she got to take her husband, Ralph, to Alaska on a cruise. She said it was really great. She plans to go back this year and pick Ralph back up!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyDeceasedFreindJean said—Discipline is the ability to make yourself do something you don’t want to do, in order to get a result you really want to get.