Always listen to the experts. They’ll tell you what can’t be done and why. Then do it. Robert Heinlein

Even if you are on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there. Will Rogers

Our love must not be a thing of words and fine talk.. It must be a thing of action and sincerity. 1 John 3:18

I’ve been transcribing some letters, written in the 1860s, ’70s and 80s, by a remarkable lady, who took what life handed her, made the best of it, and became a blessing and inspiration to others. She & her husband went from Massachusetts to Siam as missionaries in 1840. That was the beginning of a series of tragic experiences in which her faith in God was greatly tested. She was compassionate, faithful, practical, hardworking and unstoppable. Her life was filled with action and adventure. She wrote the letter’s I’m working on from the frontier in Minnesota; a true pioneer.

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light

People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within. Elizabeth Kubler Ross

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let you light shine before others, so they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Mathew 5:14-16.

In these times of trouble remember that light is needed the most when the night is the darkest.

strength

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:12-13 (NIV)

 

“There are two ways of exerting one’s strength: one is pushing down, the other is pulling up.”Booker T. Washington

I’ve met people who think they are strong because the have the ability to “put others down”; who have to “win” at all costs; who actually think that “might makes right”. And I wonder what makes them so afraid. What deep down insecurity keeps them locked in their little self made prison. Afraid to acknowledge that someone might have a better idea then theirs or be smarter or braver than they are. Unable to extend a helping hand to help another up.

“Strength of character means the ability to overcome resentment against others, to hide hurt feelings, and to forgive quickly.”    Lawrence G. Lovasik

It’s up to God

We can do our part but in the end it’s up to God.

For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11