Feeling Better

I went to work yesterday and completed a few tasks that needed to be done, but by lunchtime, my migraine was back with a vengeance. I ended up going home at lunch and sleeping most of the afternoon, which helped my migraine. Thankfully, I am feeling better this morning, but if you have migraines, you understand what I call a shadow migraine, also known as a hangover migraine. The technical term is a postdrome migraine. For me, I feel a bit achy (though not as bad as the main migraine), like I am in a brain fog (things just seem to take longer to process), and a feeling of being physically drained. For some people, a postdrome migraine feels like having hangover. I’ve had my share of hangovers over the years, and for me, a postdrome headache is not nearly as bad. It just feels like a dull headache in the background.

The migraine I’ve had this week was one caused by weather changes. The migraine started along with some light rain and got worse as a stronger weather front moved into the area. I often get a migraine either as the weather front moves into or when the precipitation begins. This one seems to have started before the rain began. It is supposed to start raining this afternoon and go through tomorrow morning before starting again late tomorrow night. On Saturday, we are expecting a mix of snow and rain before it becomes only snow on Sunday. 

I don’t know what all these weather changes will mean for my migraines, but I am hoping it won’t be too bad. I am planning to have a friend over for Thanksgiving next week, and I have a lot to do to get ready. However, if I have a rough migraine weekend, I may just not be able to host Thanksgiving. I really want to because I love all the cooking, but I can only do so much when my migraines are causing issues.

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Migraine Days

I have been doing fairly well with my migraines lately. The combination of Qulipta, a once-daily CGRP medicine (most CGRPs are monthly injections), and quarterly Botox injections seems to be a working pretty well. I’m a month away from my next set of injections, but I’d gone nearly a month without a major migraine before I had one begin on Monday. It was a rainy Monday, and my migraine began with the rain. Thankfully, I was not at work since I’d already taken the day off to go to Burlington for my audiology appointment. However, I ended up calling in sick to work yesterday because I woke up continuing to have a migraine that seemed to be getting worse the longer I was awake. My migraine isn’t completely gone, but I have some things I need to take care of at work that do not need to wait any longer. If my migraine doesn’t improve as the day goes on, I may have to leave early, but I am going to give it a try. 

This will be a shortened week at work because I will be going in today and tomorrow, then I’m scheduled to work from home on Friday. Next week will also be a shortened week because of Thanksgiving. We’ll actually close at midday on Wednesday and have the rest of the week off.

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To Wahilla Enhotulle

To Wahilla Enhotulle
By Alexander Posey

(To the South Wind)

O Wind, hast thou a sigh
Robbed from her lips divine
Upon this sunbright day—
A token or a sign?

Oh, take me, Wind, into
Thy confidence, and tell
Me, whispering soft and low,
The secrets of the dell. 

Oh, teach me what it is
The meadow flowers say
As to and fro they nod
Thro’ all the golden day.

Oh, hear, Wind of the South,
And whispering softer yet,
Unfold the story of
The lone pine tree’s regret.

Oh, waft me echoes sweet
That haunt the meadow glen—
The scent of new-mown hay,
And songs of harvest men;

The coolness of the sea
And forest dark and deep—
The soft reed notes of Pan,
And bleat of straying sheep.

Oh, make me, Wind, to know
The language of the bee—
The burden of the wild
Bird’s rapturous melody;

The password of the leaves
Upon the cottonwood;
And let me join them in
Their mystic brotherhood.


About the Poem

Alexander Posey’s poem “To Wahilla Enhotulle” reflects themes of longing, love, and a deep connection to the natural world, which are often characteristic of his work as a Creek (Muscogee) poet. Posey, a Native American writer and journalist, often used his poetry to explore themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the spiritual connection of the natural landscape. The poem expresses a heartfelt yearning for Wahilla Enhotulle, who might represent a specific person or an idealized figure of love. The poet’s tone is deeply personal, blending admiration with a sense of melancholy, as if the connection to this figure is distant or unfulfilled.

Nature plays a significant role in the poem’s imagery, serving as a metaphor for the poet’s emotions and his cultural identity. Posey often drew upon the natural elements of the Creek homeland to anchor his reflections, and here nature may symbolize the enduring beauty and purity of Wahilla Enhotulle or their bond. While the poem’s primary focus is personal, it may also carry cultural undertones. As a Creek writer, Posey’s work often honors his heritage, and the name Wahilla Enhotulle itself evokes Creek linguistic roots, grounding the poem in his culture. There’s a wistful quality in the poem, as if the poet is reflecting on something fleeting—whether it be love, memory, or life itself. This theme resonates with the universal experience of cherishing moments that cannot last.

“To Wahilla Enhotulle” can be read as an ode to a beloved person or a representation of an ideal that feels just out of reach. The intertwining of personal affection with a reverence for nature reflects Posey’s deep spiritual connection to the world around him, rooted in his identity as both a poet and a Creek individual. The poem invites readers to contemplate love, beauty, and the way they endure, even amid change or loss.

Most often when we think of the removal of Native Americans from the Southeastern United States, the Cherokee Indians and the Trail of Tears is often the most dramatically remembered, but the Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Creek Indians also faced the hardships brought about by President Andrew Jackson’s administration passing the Indian Removal Act in 1830. The forced displacement of the Creek (Muscogee) people from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States (modern-day Alabama, Georgia, and Florida) to designated Indian Territory in present-day Oklahoma adds a deeper meaning for “To Wahilla Enhotulle.” The removal process, often called the Trail of Tears, was marked by immense suffering, resistance, and loss. During the removal, thousands of Creek people were marched westward under harsh conditions, suffering from disease, starvation, and exposure. It is estimated that around 3,500 Creek people died during the journey.

The Creek removal was part of a broader pattern of dispossession and cultural disruption faced by Native American tribes. Despite the trauma of removal, the Creek Nation has endured, maintaining a vibrant culture and community in Oklahoma today. Despite the hardships, they established a new government and cultural institutions, preserving their traditions and identity. The history of removal remains a powerful reminder of the resilience of Indigenous peoples in the face of systemic oppression.

On a personal note, my great grandmother was a Creek Indian from Alabama. A small group of the Creek descendants stayed behind and settled largely in Escambia County, Alabama, where the federally recognized Poarch Band of Creek Indians has a reservation.


About the Poet

Alexander Posey (1873–1908) was a Creek (Muscogee) poet, journalist, humorist, and political figure, celebrated for his contributions to Native American literature and his advocacy for his people. Born near Eufaula in Indian Territory (modern-day Oklahoma), he was of mixed Creek and European descent. Posey was fluent in both Creek and English, which deeply influenced his literary voice.

He attended Bacone Indian University, where he honed his writing skills and developed a love for literature. Posey became a prominent journalist and the first Native American to own and edit a newspaper, the Eufaula Indian Journal. Through this platform, he addressed issues facing Native communities, including land allotment policies and the erosion of tribal sovereignty.

Posey is best known for his poetry, which blends themes of nature, love, and Creek heritage with a modern sensibility. His poems often reflect a deep connection to the natural world, as well as a sense of longing and melancholy. He also gained fame for his humorous “Fus Fixico” letters, satirical essays written in the voice of a fictional Creek elder, critiquing government policies and cultural assimilation.

Tragically, Posey died at the age of 35 in 1908, drowning in the North Canadian River. Despite his short life, his work continues to resonate as a significant contribution to American and Native American literature.

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Soup Weather

Luckily, I don’t have to work today. I have an appointment up near Burlington at noon, so if I went to work today, I’d have to leave around 11 am and would not be back until before 2 pm. It just wouldn’t be worth it. 

Besides, while I am in the Burlington area, I have a few errands I need to run. One of those errands a is to run by a grocery store. (The other is to have lunch at a Mexican restuarant I enjoy. I had planned yesterday to try a new soup recipe, but I realized it called for three cans of cannellini beans, and I had only gotten one. It’s definitely soup weather, and I love a good soup. The soup is a Creamy White Bean and Kale soup. The soup has two of my favorite things in a soup, beans and kale. I usually only buy kale when I am going to make Zuppa Tuscano, but this recipe looked pretty good, even if it is vegan, although I think the addition of ham, or even Italian sausage, in this soup might be pretty good. I haven’t decided if I will modify the recipe with a little ham or not; I’ll see what my mood is when I’m making the soup. The recipe says it’s for four people, but that sounds like a lot of soup for just me, so I may half or at least third the recipe. Anyway, this soup is what I plan to make for dinner tonight.

I love trying new soups. Sometimes, they are really good and I can’t get enough of them, and sometimes, they fall flat. Do you have a favorite go to receive for when the weather cools down in fall and winter? If so, let me know. I may want to try it.

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Freedom and Responsibility

For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men— as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God.

—1 Peter 2:15-16

I have always believed that the most important message in Christianity is that Christians should live in a way that exemplifies goodness and righteousness. By being a decent human being and doing good, God says we can silence our critics who speak against Christians out of ignorance or prejudice. As LGBTQ+ Christians this is especially important because so many people who consider themselves to be Christian do not accept us as part of the Christian community, or at least as not living the lifestyle they think we should. In the bone passage Peter is encouraging believers to counter hostility not through argument but through the strength of their character and deeds.

When Christ brought the world His teachings, He set us free from free from sin and the constraints of the Mosaic Law. However, this freedom should not be seen as an excuse to engage in sinful behavior (“a cover-up for evil”). In Matthew 22:37-38, Jesus said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. Peter explains in 1 Peter 2:16 that freedom should lead to living as “bondservants of God.” True freedom, according to Peter, is found in willingly submitting to God’s authority and living in accordance with His will. And Jesus tells us in Matthew 22:39-40 that His will is to “love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” 

Christians are called to live lives that testify to their faith, even in the face of criticism or opposition, using good works to show the truth of their beliefs. The Bible offers extensive guidance on living a life that bears witness to faith in God, emphasizing both words and actions as key components of a witnessing life. Matthew 5:14-16 tells us that we “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 your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” By living our lives in a way that reflects God’s love, truth, and goodness to the world, we can draw others to Him through good works and faithful living. John 13:34-35 tells us that Jesus gave us a new commandment to “love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” 

First Peter 3:15 tells us to “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” In living a life that is pleasing to God, we are to do good without complaint or expecting praise. Paul wrote in Philippians 2:14-15, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.” Christian freedom means we should express ourselves through service to God and others, not through selfishness or moral compromise. Considering the recent election that showed how far many Americans who would claim to be Christian have rejected the life that God’s commands us. They voted for selfish reasons and made compromised their morals to follow a man who proclaimed hate and exclusion. God encourages us to live with integrity and purpose, to align our actions with God’s will and showing the world what it means to serve Him faithfully. 

The national anthem of the United States refers to our country as the “land of the land of the free and home of the brave.” Jesus set us free but also gave us responsibilities to have this freedom. The Bible speaks extensively about the balance between freedom and responsibility, emphasizing that true freedom is found in Christ and is meant to be exercised responsibly in service to God and others. Here are key principles: John 8:36 tells us, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” True freedom comes through Jesus, who liberates believers from the bondage of sin, guilt, and spiritual death. This freedom is not merely about doing as one pleases but about living in alignment with God’s will. 

Likewise, Galatians 5:13 says, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Christian freedom is not a license for selfishness or sin but a call to selfless service, motivated by love for others. I honestly believe that Americans have strayed from this commandment of God. On the Day of Judgement, we will all be judge by God for how we lived our lives. I try my best to live a life that is pleasing to God because Romans 14:12 tells us, “So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” We are responsible for our actions and decisions, knowing we will answer to God for how we the freedom He gave us. 

In the recent election, many people forgot that 1 Corinthians 8:9 warns us: “But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak.” Christians have the freedom to make personal choices, but they must consider how their actions affect others, especially fellow believers. Love should guide the use of freedom. However, many people chose to vote against what God commands us to do and considered only themselves and not how their vote will affect others. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:19, “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.” We should follow Paul’s example Paul used his freedom to serve others and advance the Gospel, showing that Christian freedom is a call to mission and sacrifice. 

The Bible teaches that freedom and responsibility are inseparable. True freedom is found in Christ, and it empowers us to live holy lives, serve others in love, and glorify God. Rather than indulging in selfishness, we are called to use our freedom responsibly by considering its impact on others and aligning our actions with God’s purposes. In conclusion, 1 Peter 2:15-16 emphasizes that God’s will is for us to live upright lives, doing good to silence the ignorance of our critics. While Christ set us free from sin, this freedom should not be used as an excuse for sinful behavior but as an opportunity to serve God faithfully. We should balance between freedom with responsibility, by living in a way that honors God and reflects His message. Many in the LGBTQ+ have abandoned their faith because the leaders of their church did not practice the commandment that we are to live a life that shows love and kindness. Those church leaders abandoned the responsibilities they were given to teach the Gospel in a way that restricts the freedoms of others. 

I try to live my life in a way that at the end of this life, I can say as Timothy said in 2 Timothy 4:7 that “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

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Moment of Zen: Sleeping

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My Bed Is Calling Me

This morning, my bed is calling me back to it. I would love nothing more than to just crawl back into my bed with its warm blankets and go back to sleep. If I did not have a class to teach this afternoon, I would call in sick with a migraine; however, instead, I took some medicine for the headache I woke up with this morning. I am hoping it will improve before I have to leave for work. Maybe after I have some breakfast and take a shower, I will feel more energized, but right now, my energy level is low. 

At least, it’s Friday and tomorrow, I can go back to bed after feeding Isabella. I can do the same on Sunday and Monday, too. On Monday, I have a medical appointment at noon, and since it is up in Burlington, I am taking the whole day off. I need an extra day out of the office. Nothing bad has really happened, but work has been putting me in a bad mood this week. There are reasons for my grumpy mood, but I just need to get over it and go about my day.

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Slow Week

It’s been a slow work week because there hasn’t been a lot for me to do. Today though will probably be different. I have several tasks that I need to complete today. I have two tours to do today and a class to prepare for tomorrow. I had my work from home day yesterday because I have to be at the museum tomorrow, my usual work from home day, to teach said class. I would rather stay home and crawl back into my bed, but alas, I have to go to work.

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Last Week’s Election

For many LGBTQ+ individuals, the recent election of Donald Trump in 2024 may feel like a step backward, bringing about complicated emotions and concerns. For those of us who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer, this election outcome can be a reminder of the challenges we face in securing lasting acceptance and equality. It may seem hopeless to many of us. I certainly feel that way, but I am trying to find something to be hopeful about in looking towards the future.

The first time Trump was elected, his administration often took stances that left LGBTQ+ people feeling vulnerable. From the debates over protections for LGBTQ+ employees to battles about health care access and the rights of transgender individuals, there was an undercurrent of uncertainty about whether our rights would be respected or reversed, especially with the current makeup of the Supreme Court, which has for several decades mostly protected our rights, but with a majority of ultraconservative justices, our rights are on the line. For some of us, it felt like a time of resilience and strength as we supported one another. But even that resilience can wear thin over time.

Now, in 2024, the news feels overwhelming or even triggering for those who felt we were just beginning to feel secure in our identities or equal in our rights. It’s not uncommon to feel depressed or anxious about what this election means for us and our loved ones. We know that the fight for equality will have to continue in new ways, with new challenges. In this moment, it’s crucial to reach out for support, to find community, and to look after our mental well-being.

For many LGBTQ+ individuals, this election is (or should be) a call to action. It cannot be a time for quiet reflection. We have to be vigilant in our struggle for equality. No matter what, it’s essential to recognize that we’re not alone. There are communities, organizations, and allies ready to stand beside us. Finding hope and comfort in shared spaces, whether online or in person, can help us navigate this complex and sometimes overwhelming time.

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At the Mid Hour of Night

At the Mid Hour of Night

By Thomas Moore

 

At the mid hour of night, when stars are weeping, I fly 

To the lone vale we loved, when life shone warm in thine eye;

And I think oft, if spirits can steal from the regions of air, 

To revisit past scenes of delight, thou wilt come to me there,

And tell me our love is remembered, even in the sky.

 

Then I sing the wild song ’twas once such pleasure to hear! 

When our voices commingling breathed, like one, on the ear;

And, as Echo far off through the vale my sad orison rolls, 

I think, oh my love! ’tis thy voice from the Kingdom of Souls,

Faintly answering still the notes that once were so dear.

 

 

About this Poem

 

Thomas Moore’s poem “At the Mid Hour of Night” is a lyrical expression of love, longing, and memory. The poem captures a moment of deep nostalgia, where the speaker reflects on a lost love, filling the quiet night with a bittersweet yearning. The “mid hour of night” symbolizes a quiet, solitary time when one is most likely to be lost in thought. It represents a reflective moment when memories resurface.

 

The speaker reminisces about a past love, feeling the ghostly presence of their lover in the silence of the night. The imagery Moore uses evokes a dream-like, almost haunting quality, as if the speaker is visited by memories that cannot be fully grasped or held onto. His speaker’s longing reflects a deep emotional attachment to someone who is absent, suggesting either physical separation or the finality of death. The lines speak to the way love lingers in memory, refusing to fade even when the person is no longer present. Moore’s choice of words, like “phantoms” and the suggestion of a ghostly presence, gives the poem an ethereal quality, hinting that the lover’s memory might be more than just a thought—it’s almost as if the lover is truly there in spirit.

 

The line “The light of other days” suggests that past memories shine brightly in the speaker’s mind, illuminating the present with a light that is no longer physically there. This metaphor captures the power of memory to bring joy and sorrow, showing how love remains a part of one’s life even when it’s no longer tangible.

 

Ultimately, “At the Mid Hour of Night” explores the power of love to transcend time and space. The speaker’s love lives on in memories, as vivid and haunting as if it were a spectral presence. Moore’s poem speaks to the universal experience of missing someone and feeling their absence keenly, especially in quiet, reflective moments. The poem thus touches on the immortality of love, held within the mind and heart, and how deeply it intertwines with memory and longing.

 

 

About the Poet

 

Thomas Moore (1779–1852) was an Irish poet, singer, songwriter, and entertainer, renowned for his romantic poetry and Irish patriotic songs. Born in Dublin, Moore attended Trinity College and later moved to London, where he became well-known in literary circles. His works often celebrated Irish culture and history, most famously in Irish Melodies (1808–1834), a collection of lyrics set to traditional Irish tunes. His poems, like “The Last Rose of Summer” and “Oft, in the Stilly Night,” became widely popular for their lyrical beauty and emotional depth. Moore was also politically active, advocating for Irish nationalism and independence, which reflected in his writings. He is remembered as Ireland’s national bard, combining literary skill with a deep love for his homeland. Moore died in Wiltshire, England, on February 25, 1852. 

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Honoring LGBTQ+ Veterans

Veterans Day is a U.S. holiday observed annually on November 11 to honor and thank all military veterans for their service to the country. Originally called Armistice Day, it marked the end of World War I at 11 am on November 11, 1918. In 1954, it was renamed Veterans Day to recognize veterans of all wars and branches of service. In some countries, it was renamed Remembrance Day. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who died in military service, Veterans Day celebrates all who have served, both living and deceased. It’s a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans to protect the freedoms and values of the United States. Today, we extend a special recognition to LGBTQ+ veterans who have made extraordinary sacrifices to protect our freedoms, often facing unique challenges and barriers along the way.

The military has historically been a challenging environment for LGBTQ+ service members, with policies like “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) reminding us of a time when service members risked their careers—and even their freedom—by simply being open about their identities. The repeal of DADT in 2011 marked a significant step toward equality, but LGBTQ+ veterans have a longer history of service and sacrifice that deserves our recognition and respect.

LGBTQ+ veterans have served in every conflict in American history, often in silence, yet with a dedication to the mission and their comrades. Despite facing systemic discrimination, they have shown the same courage and commitment as their peers, contributing to our safety and national security. Their service is a testament to their resilience and a reminder of the strength that diversity brings to our armed forces.

Many LGBTQ+ veterans carry the additional burden of dealing with the consequences of historical discrimination. For some, this has meant fighting for proper benefits, receiving honorable discharges, or simply finding acknowledgment of their service. Thankfully, as awareness and support grow, resources are being created to help LGBTQ+ veterans access the care and recognition they deserve. These efforts are crucial as we work toward a future where all veterans are honored for their service, regardless of who they are.

Today, we honor LGBTQ+ veterans for their bravery, resilience, and sacrifice. They remind us that the pursuit of freedom and equality often requires courage not only on the battlefield but in everyday life. Let us continue to support and uplift LGBTQ+ veterans, ensuring they receive the honor, care, and respect they have always deserved.

Thank you to all LGBTQ+ veterans. Your service has made a difference, and your stories continue to inspire us all.

Gravestone of Leonard Matlovich.

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The River that Divides

And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

—Joshua 24:15

 

More than half of American voters have chosen to serve the the “gods” on the “other side of the River.” They have chosen evil, hatred, and subjugation over goodness, love, and freedom. They have chosen poorly, but “for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” and I hope you will too. Hopefully, time will fly over the next four years, and we will be rid of the orange Mussolini forever. His legacy will likely continue long after he is gone, and things will inevitably get worse before they get better, but we can still believe and fight for democracy.

 

No country has allowed fascism to be the law of the land forever. It will fail. People will get tired of it when the fascists come for them. Hopefully, the end will come sooner than later. We must believe in God’s plan. My friend Susan said to me on Wednesday after the election, “Before the election, I asked God to please not let this happen. But I also contemplated the fact that if it did, and if it was God's plan, it may be because things need to get so much worse before the people in this country can find their way out.” I just hope that those of us who sounded the warning call will not suffer too much.

 

In Joshua 24:15, Joshua, the leader of Israel, challenges the people to choose whom they will serve. In this verse, Joshua is addressing the Israelites as they settle in the Promised Land. The essence of the message is a call to commitment and loyalty. Joshua presents a choice: either continue following the one true God who led them out of Egypt, or turn to other gods and idols, like the ones worshiped by surrounding nations. He makes it clear, however, that his own decision is to serve the Lord.

 

Joshua asks the people to make a deliberate decision about their faith and values. Rather than following out of tradition or obligation, he urges them to consider carefully and personally whom they are deeply committed to serving. The Bible often addresses the challenge of choice—the decision-making that involves choosing between obedience to God and alternative paths that might seem appealing or easier. Throughout scripture, there is a strong theme of free will and moral responsibility, where individuals and communities are called to make deliberate, faithful choices.

In Deuteronomy 30:19-20, God, through Moses, tells the Israelites, “I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” This passage underscores the choice between life (obedience to God) and death (turning away from Him). God urges them to “choose life” as the path of blessing and flourishing. On Tuesday, many Americans, even though they would disagree with me, turned away from God. They chose to follow their own prejudices and vote for a man who professes their hate loudly an unashamedly.

God gives us the freedom to choose right or wrong. In Genesis 2:16-17, while I n the Garden of Eden, God gave Adam and Eve a choice regarding the tree of knowledge of good and evil. This choice tested their obedience and trust in God’s commands. Their decision to eat the forbidden fruit reflects humanity’s capacity for moral choice, with consequences. Paul writes in Romans 6:16, “Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey?” This passage emphasizes the importance of whom we choose to obey, be it sin leading to death or obedience leading to righteousness. Again, many chose to obey sin, greed, and hate over obedience to God. In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus teaches about the “narrow gate” that leads to life and the “broad road” that leads to destruction. He emphasizes that choosing the path of righteousness is often more challenging but ultimately leads to eternal life.

Paul assures believers in 1 Corinthians 10:13 that God will provide a way out of every temptation, but they must choose to take it. This highlights that while God is present to help, the responsibility of choice remains with us. In Galatians 6:7-8, Paul warns, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” This principle of sowing and reaping reflects the importance of making wise, faithful choices, as they bear consequences for ourselves and others. Those who voted for Trump on Tuesday made a poor choice that not only will they have to face the consequences of, but we will suffer the same consequences because they were deceived by an egomaniac who strives on the people who worship him. He is not their savior as they claim. He will be their destruction. Jesus says in Matthew 16:24, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Following Jesus requires a decision to prioritize Him above all else, even when it involves sacrifice.

 

The Bible’s teachings on choice show that we are empowered to choose our path—God does not force obedience but calls us to a relationship that requires our willing commitment. In the face of competing influences, believers are encouraged to pursue lives of faithfulness, love, and trust in God, understanding that our choices are not just for ourselves but impact others and our relationship with God. The consistent biblical invitation is to choose wisely, aligning one’s heart and actions with God’s will.

 

Joshua’s statement in Joshua 24:15 emphasizes personal and family commitment. By saying, “as for me and my household,” he demonstrates leadership and integrity, showing that his decision is not dependent on what others choose. The Bible places a high value on commitment and integrity, highlighting these qualities as foundational to a faithful life. Commitment is often seen as unwavering loyalty and dedication to God, while integrity represents honesty, moral consistency, and alignment between belief and behavior. Together, these qualities are essential for living a life that reflects God’s character and commands.

In Matthew 5:37, Jesus says, “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” This teaching emphasizes that people should honor their word, highlighting that commitment in relationships and actions should be truthful and dependable. Proverbs 10:9 says, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” This verse underscores the security and trust that comes from a life of integrity, contrasting it with the instability of dishonesty. Many people may be tempted to lose their faith in God or fight fire with fire and insult with insult, but 1 Peter 3:16 encourages believers to “keep a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” Maintaining integrity allows Christians to witness to their faith, even when facing criticism or opposition. We must remember this as we deal with those who pervert the words of the Bible to back up their hateful and sinful ways. We cannot stoop to their level. When we look at Donald Trump and his followers, we should remember Proverbs 12:22: “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” God values honesty and trustworthiness, demonstrating that integrity is integral to our character and relationships.

The coming years may be difficult for us to endure, but we must keep our faith despite the challenges. Paul writes in Hebrews 10:23, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful,” to encourage believers to remain committed to their faith, trusting that God’s promises are steadfast even in difficult times. James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life.” James shows that commitment and integrity through trials bring rewards, as God honors steadfast faith.

 

The Bible shows that commitment and integrity are qualities that lead to a life of trust, security, and alignment with God’s will. Commitment involves a deep, unwavering dedication to God, others, and truth, while integrity calls for consistent moral character and honesty. Both are essential for a meaningful relationship with God and an effective witness to others. The Bible teaches that God blesses those who live with integrity and honors their commitments, providing strength and guidance even in the face of challenges. Joshua 24:15 is a powerful statement of family faith. Joshua’s words encourage families, whether biological or chosen, and individuals to make their commitment to God central, regardless of cultural or societal pressures. Joshua issues a call to faithful devotion. It reminds believers that faith is a conscious, personal choice—one that involves commitment and has implications for future generations.

 

As we navigate the river of life, there will be rocky shoals and rapids that will test you, but there will also be smooth waters that will allow you to glide through effortlessly. The smooth waters seem to be quickly becoming rapids that will be harder and harder to navigate. If we work together and keep our faith, we will get through any rocky shoals we come across. Which side of the river will you end up on? I hope you will join me on the on the river that serves the Lord and works everyday to make the world a better place.

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Moment of Zen: Smiling

I know for most of us, there hasn’t been a lot to smile about this week, so I hope that these guys’ smiles will be contagious and give you something to smile about.

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One thing I am going to miss about my time in Rhode Island: watching the sunrise and the sailboats going out to see from my hotel room. My room faces east, so I have a great view. It’s a truly beautiful sight. 

Going Home

I’m about to start getting ready for my day. I have conference stuff this morning including a field trip to a museum, then we will hit the road to head home. I can’t wait to see Isabella. She’ll probably spend the first hour telling me how displeased she was that I was gone and how happy she is that I am back. She’ll demand attention and lots of petting. I can’t wait. I love that little girl. It’s going to be a long day. It’s been a long week with a lot of disappointment, but the week is almost over. I’ll be back home soon, but for now, I need to take a shower and get ready for my day.

Even with the disappointment I know we have all felt this week, try and have a wonderful weekend! I’m taking a friend car shopping tomorrow, and it will be so nice spending the day with her.

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Waking Up

I woke up this morning with a headache. I hope it will bet better as the day goes on because it is going to be a long day. I’m still at my conference and have sessions to attend this morning, then sightseeing this afternoon, and dinner with coworkers tonight. I may go back to bed for a while though. Have a good day everyone!

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Devastated

I woke up this morning just before they called Wisconsin for Trump. I cannot convey how devastated I feel right now that the news has called the race for Donald Trump. How can so many Americans be so FUCKING STUPID? When I saw the results, a wave of nausea hit me immediately. I honestly don’t know how democracy will survive in the United States, or how the country itself will survive another Trump administration. I hate this fucking country! That’s all I can say right now.  I hate this fucking country! I am completely devastated and am going to just crawl back in bed. This is a nightmare.