Posted in Timeless Tidbits From History
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THIS DAY IN HISTORY... On December 9th, 1965, the cartoon "A Charlie Brown Christmas" premieres on television.
What's so special about that? Well, in this day where Jesus' birth is being taken from Christmas, old Charlie Brown has withstood the test of political correctness for yet another year. Walmart and many others no longer desire to wish anyone a MERRY CHRISTMAS because it may offend another. Instead, they opt for HAPPY HOLIDAYS. And sadly, many libraries and other public places are 'correcting' nativity scenes by taking Mary, Joseph, and Jesus from them, leaving but a few shepherds standing in a stable.
Truly, a battle rages.
However, on ABC a few days ago, I witnessed Charlie Brown asking if anyone knew the meaning of Christmas. Then, Linus stood upon a stage to tell the world the story of Christ Jesus.
"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.'
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'"
Yes, forty years have now passed since this testimony premiered in the form of a cartoon. And, after forty years, it is still being aired to the world. As we approach the day when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let's remember the true meaning of Christmas and not fall prey to the attempts of the world to make us forget!
HISTORY NOTE: The December 9th, 1965 broadcast of "A Charlie Brown Christmas" was seen in more than 15 million homes, capturing nearly half of the possible audience.
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Posted in The Weekender Writer
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Oh, the blessings of praising God in song..!
Wyatt sat grudgingly in the fourth pew of the McVeigh Church of Christ, passing the time by thumbing through the Bible he wrestled from the seat crevice in front of him. Turning the pages, he frowned, not being able to comprehend the Old English of King James’ time. The tired look on his face further displayed he didn’t relish his position—being in a Kentucky church with his grandma wasn’t his ideal vacation. |
Posted in Timeless Tidbits From History
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THIS DAY IN HISTORY… On December 8th, 1949, Chinese Nationalists move their capital to Taiwan. As communist forces were proving successful in China, many Chinese citizens opposed to it withdrew to the small island of Taiwan--a region of China. Since this date, the small island has been a focal point for strife where the “mainland” forces claim the island to be theirs and those on the island claim to be independent of Communist rule. Initially, many were relieved that the two forces separated. However, even that proved to be a problem. The Chinese Nationalists at Taiwan didn’t want the communist government on the mainland to be diplomatically recognized, and the communist government claimed the island of Taiwan as its land--calling the citizens of Taiwan "renegades!" Thus, more years of debate and strife continued. Even today, there’s fear of the communist government of mainland China trying to take Taiwan by force!
NOTE: TAIWAN IS THE SMALL ISLAND IN THE LOWER RIGHT CORNER As we greet this day, let’s not forget that there are still some democracies in the world living under the threat of having their freedoms stripped away. Keep them in your prayers and be thankful that we can bounce along knowing we don't live under any immediate threats. |
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THESE ARE THE TOP 10 LIKELY REASONS FOR THE FUNNY FARM'S EXCESSIVE WATER BILL!
I've given the matter some thought and, in an attempt to help the Funny Farm, wish to share my conclusions.
10. You may have a leak.
9. The water department chief needs some extra holiday cash.
8. A new CAR WASH just opened across the street and is running off your line.
7. The horses are taking a few too many unauthorized baths during the night.
6. Tony's wish to take Nancy to Hawaii has been replaced with his desire to change his farm into an island -- thus bringing Hawaii to her!
5. Farm hint #672: Don't use city water in place of nature to fill up your wells! It's quite expensive and defeats the purpose.
4. Opening a water park in the country isn't a good idea.
3. It's President BUSH'S FAULT!
2. The late fees for the Todd County water department is 50% interest compounded DAILY! (And you thought CASH ADVANCE places were sharks.)
1. And the number one reason, the meter-reader is dyslexic! |
Posted in Timeless Tidbits From History
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THIS DAY IN HISTORY: DECEMBER 7th, 1941... Few days speak for themselves; this is one of them. As most are aware, on this date in 1941, the United States was attacked by Japan at Pearl Harbor. Following is President Roosevelt's message speaking of the event. ---------- Mr. Vice President, Mr. Speaker, members of the Senate and the House of Representatives: Yesterday, December 7, 1941 - a date which will live in infamy - the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. The United States was at peace with that nation, and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific. Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in the American island of Oahu, the Japanese Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to our Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. And, while this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or of armed attack. It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time the Japanese Government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian Islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. I regret to tell you that very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu. Last night Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong. And this morning the Japanese attacked Midway Island. Japan has therefore undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday and today speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation. As Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense, that always will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us. No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people, in their righteous might, will win through to absolute victory. I believe that I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us. With confidence in our armed forces, with the un-bounding determination of our people, we will gain the inevitable triumph. So help us God. I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7, 1941, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire. ---------- As we remember this day, let's not forget Roosevelt's words: "So help us God." God is in control. If we expect to triumph at anything, we should keep our Creator in the forefront -- even when we think we flounder. ----------
USS UTAH
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Posted in The Encourager
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Our children are precious and sometimes make HUGE mistakes. When this happens, we must be careful in our treatment of them because OUR words and actions can be even more harmful than THEIR error in judgement.
For example, young men and women can become parents outside of wedlock and receive ridicule for their mistakes. Rejected, verbally taunted, they endure not only the pains of their first mistake, but they are subjected to a second series of sufferings at the hands of those who were fortunate enough to keep THEIR sins hidden from view. (Remember scripture? For all have sinned?)
When we look at someone elses faults while ignoring our own, the other person can not compare. When we look at someone elses faults while ignoring our own, we can ignorantly say and do things that may greatly impact THEIR futures.
Often, I write poetry to reflect my feelings about those who suffer needlessly. One such poem symbolizes the SPIRITUAL suffering that I believe a family member of mine had to endure as a result of verbal lashings she received for making a BIG mistake. Lashings which may have had an impact on her physical and SPIRITUAL life from that day forward. -------------------- PRAGUE 1793
She visits the nameless martyr Whom she knew for just one day; No flowers to hold -- only mem'ries -- Despite what others say.
Her family won't receive her And the clergy prods her side To be scapegoat of would-be groom Who had another bride.
Neglected, her heart's aching In penitence's hungered plight, Which leads young child searching For nourishment in Prague night,
Within the feeble moonlit bags Among the debris near the town, Where sins -- discarded like rags -- Have fashioned the mourning gown
Of one homeless child Searching for two loves thrown away, Within the heaps of trash Enshrouding the tomb of her firstborn babe. --------------------
For some, the wounds of mistakes can never be healed without the forgiveness of the family. As parents, let's not forget the prodigal son and his father's willingness to accept and forgive him unconditionally...
No doubt, instruct your children in the ways of God. But, be ready for them to make mistakes!
And when they do make errors in judgement, treat them the way you would want to be treated when your mistakes are made known to man. More so, treat them the way you want to be treated when you stand before the throne of God...!
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Posted in Timeless Tidbits From History
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ON DECEMBER 6th, 1865, the 13th Amendment is ratified, thus abolishing slavery.
Even before our nation existed, slavery was in the world. In Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, in one form or another, certain peoples have unwillingly been at the mercy of another. And, in as many lands, there have been both those who have approved of the act and those opposed it.
In the United States, slavery was one cause for the American Civil War. With the free states in control of the outcome, the time for its abolishment was near. However, in order to do so, it had to be enacted into law. December 6th, 1865 was that date.
------------------------- The Thirteenth Amendment Section 1: Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction. Section 2: Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation." ------------------------- As Christians, we can appreciate when freedom is given to those held in bondage. At one time, we too were held captive to the master of sin. We were enslaved at birth. But, by the grace of God, we have been set free by the loving act of Jesus on the hill of Calvary. As we continue through the day, let's not forget the freedom we have.
------------------- Click JayInCleveland to read about the history of the NATIVITY! It's a very informative piece.
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Posted in School Daze
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OK, you asked for it... Seems my last questions were too easy for some, so take a chance at World Geography!
Just click on the answer you believe is correct... If you are wrong, you will be directed to return to this page to begin again.
1) I border BRAZIL.
D) CHILE, ARGENTINA, and PANAMA
--------------------------------------- THE CONFESSOR HAS AN INTERESTING HISTORY-RELATED POST YOU SHOULD READ DEALING WITH POLITICAL CORRECTNESS IN AMERICA. VISIT HIS BLOG BY CLICKING The CONFESSOR |
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7 Things I Want To Do Before I Die
1. BE RAPTURED! (Who wouldn't) 2. See my last credit card burn. 3. See TONY wearing speedos on the funny farm! (orange ones) 4. See my children (and future grandchildren) grow into strong vessels of the Lord 5. Get a book and/or game published. 6. Take my wife on a carefree vacation. 7. See the FUNNY FARM get a bigger pool! (See below)
7 Things I Cannot Do
1. Imagine seeing Tony in orange speedos! 2. Find another word to rhyme with ORANGE. 3. A backward three-and-a-half with a twist. 4. Juggle four balls. 5. Beat Josh in rock-paper-scissors. 6. Beat Jordan in Yu-Gi-Oh! 7. Stop loving my family.
7 Things That Attracted Me To My Wife
1. Her smile. 2. Her faith. 3. Her beautiful eyes. 4. Her words of encouragement. 5. A few things I can't mention. 6. Her silent prayers for me. 7. The way she cares for our children.
7 Things I Say Most Often
1. no... no.... NO!!! 2. Who left the refrigerator open? 3. Do you have any COKE? 4. Not a problem. 5. Oh, that's what I MEANT to say. 6. What's his name? (nudging the wife) 7. I can't remember.
7 Books I Love
1. The Bible. 2. I don't read books many books... 3. "What to expect when expecting." Oh, that's a girl book? 4. "Hop on Pop" (One day Pop will spank those children... I just know it!) 5. "Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb" 6. "Mr. Brown Can Moo... Can You?" 7. "Are You My Mother?"
7 Movies I'd Watch Over and Over...
1. Sargeant York 2. Arsenic and Old Lace. 3. The Patiot (Revolutionary War -- Mel Gibson) 4. Ben Hur 5. The Ten Commandments 6. The Battle of the Bulge (No, not my waistline.) 7. The 'Burbs (Hey, I'm entitled)
7 People I Want to Join In
1. JavaMama 2. Heart4Home 3. GalacticBlogger 4. ? 5. ? 6. ? 7. ?
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We have to constantly guard against our 13-month-old ripping down the Christmas tree this year. I'm certain many parents have gone through this experience. Below, I have listed some possible solutions to keep the tree from becoming horizontal.
1) Have no Christmas tree.
2) Build gates around the tree.
3) Move the tree into the laundry room.
4) Move the 13-month-old into the laundry room.
5) Take last year's small present of a walking, talking, singing Santa Claus and teach my child to FEAR Santa CLAWS. Let him know that naughty CHILDREN are IN the bag over his shoulder... Then, place the fearsome Ho-Ho in front of the tree to stand guard. That should do the trick!
If you have any other solutions, please share them. |